Kajiado County Woman Representative Leah Sankaire has launched a countywide distribution of sanitary towels targeting girls in all public comprehensive schools across the county.
The programme was officially flagged off at AIC Girls Comprehensive School in Dalalekutuk Ward, Kajiado Central, where Sankaire said the initiative is aimed at promoting dignity, improving school attendance and enhancing menstrual hygiene among learners.
Under the initiative, all girls from Grade Four to Grade Nine in public comprehensive schools across Kajiado County will each receive four packets of sanitary towels. The distribution is expected to benefit thousands of learners and cushion vulnerable families who struggle to afford basic sanitary products.
Speaking during the launch, Sankaire described the programme as an educational incentive designed to keep girls in school and create a conducive learning environment.
“The distribution of sanitary towels to our girls is meant to dignify them, boost their confidence during their menstrual cycle, give them comfort and ensure they remain in school,” she said. “No girl should miss classes because of a natural biological process.”
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She noted that lack of access to sanitary products has been a key factor contributing to absenteeism among girls, particularly in rural areas. By addressing the challenge, she said, the county is taking deliberate steps to improve retention rates and overall academic performance.
Sankaire also addressed the growing concern over early and unwanted pregnancies, which she said have led to increased school dropouts in parts of the county. She urged learners to remain focused on their education and called on parents, teachers and community leaders to work together to safeguard the future of young girls.
“We must confront the issue of early pregnancies and ensure our girls complete their education. Education is the great equalizer and the most powerful tool we can give our children,” she added.
The event was attended by headteachers from all public comprehensive schools in Kajiado Central, the Deputy Sub-County Education Director and Dalalekutuk Ward MCA John Loisa, who also serves as the Majority Leader of the Kajiado County Assembly.
Education stakeholders present lauded the initiative, terming it a timely intervention that will not only support learners but also strengthen efforts to promote gender equality in education across Kajiado County.
By Benedict Aoya
