Mangetti Dune Combined School and Makata Primary School girls have received hygiene dignity kit donations from FLECHAS, a non-profit organisation operating in the Tsumkwe Constituency.
After 36 years, Kitty van Wyk, founder of Mangetti Dune Combined School and a former principal, has returned to give back to the community through a menstrual health and dignity initiative for schoolgirls.
The initiative was launched in Namibia on June 26 through the Washable Sanitary Pad Project. It originated in Zambia through the Nyimba Foundation, in partnership with Army Bell Charity.
"Today is about far more than simply giving out sanitary pads. It is about restoring the dignity of all the girls in front of us. Every girl deserves the confidence to attend school every day, participate fully in her education, and pursue her dreams without unnecessary barriers," stated Kitty Van Wyk, the donor.
A total of 157 girls from the two schools received the donations.
The project provides sustainable and reusable menstrual hygiene kits to schoolgirls, helping them manage their menstrual health with dignity, reducing absenteeism and enabling them to remain in school and participate fully in their education.
Speaking at the event, Tsumkwe Constituency Councillor Petrus Mutji also highlighted the importance of menstrual hygiene support for girls, particularly those in rural communities.
"Today, you have returned not just as a former leader, but as a compassionate benefactor. Your generous donation of sanitary pads and essential school supplies is proof that once an educator and community builder, you remain a guardian of our children's future."
Mutji added that providing menstrual hygiene management solutions improves academic performance and helps reduce dropout rates among adolescent girls, particularly those in rural communities.
Scholtz van Wyk, founder of the Frontline Enterprise for Community, Heritage and Advocacy of the San organisation, said they will continue reaching out to all schools in the Tsumkwe Constituency to support the girls.