Ethiopian schools lack dignity pads and basic sanitation facilities for girls
In Ethiopia, 24 million women and girls aged 15–50 need menstrual hygiene products. Despite this staggering need, only 45% of women of reproductive age use commercial dignity kits, including reusable sanitary pads, due to limited availability, affordability, and cultural stigma. Only one in four of women and girls have everything they need to manage menstruation effectively, from hygienic products to privacy and clean water.
The impact of this shortfall is severe particularly for school-age girls. About 39% of Ethiopian schools lack basic sanitation facilities, and 76% have no access to the improved water supply. This makes it extremely difficult for girls to manage their periods safely and with dignity.
As a result, menstruation becomes a monthly barrier to education. Due to this, many girls are forced to miss five to seven school days each month, significantly impacting their academic performance and long-term prospects.
Beyond infrastructure, the stigma and silence around menstruation continue to marginalize girls, reinforcing cycles of shame, missed opportunities, and poverty.
Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia’s commitment to ensure Dignity, Health, and Hope
We’re committed to changing this narrative: every girl deserves the right to education without interruption, and menstruation should never be a reason to fall behind. We’ve provided reusable, chemical-free menstrual pads to secondary and primary school girls. These pads are Eco-friendly, reducing plastic waste and environmental harm. Each reusable pad is durable and effective for up to 18 months, offering a sustainable and dignified solution to period poverty and has created awareness to empower girls to manage their periods with confidence, stay in school, and pursue their dreams.
Let’s break the silence. Let’s break the stigma. Let’s break the cycle of period poverty!
More on Habitat’s work to support school girls
