The Malkia Pad Project
Empowering Women & Girls with Dignity
The Malkia Pad Project empowers girls and women in eastern DRC by improving menstrual health, dignity, and education. Structured around production, distribution, and community education, it provides reusable sanitary pads, ensures access for vulnerable girls, and delivers awareness on menstrual hygiene and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), breaking taboos and fostering equality.
🧵 Production
Women Concern runs a community-based workshop managed by trained women tailors who produce high-quality, washable, and reusable pads in different sizes (small, medium, large). Beyond providing safe menstrual products, the production unit empowers women with employment and income, turning pad-making into a tool for dignity and economic independence.
📦 Distribution
Pads are distributed through a dual approach: free pads for vulnerable girls (schoolgirls, girls with disabilities, and young mothers), and affordable sales via “Pad on the Go” kiosks. Revenue from sales sustains free distribution and expands access, ensuring no girl is left behind.
đź“š Community Education
Beyond products, the project tackles stigma around menstruation. Community sessions raise awareness on menstrual hygiene management (MHM) and SRHR, promoting positive mindsets among girls, boys, parents, and teachers. Menstrual health becomes a pathway to dignity, confidence, and gender equality.