Sanitary Pad Distribution

In the initiative aimed at promoting dignity, education, and gender equality, Restoration Burundi has distributed sanitary pads to female students in two high schools located in the Kirundo province, near the Rwandan border: Marembo High School and Kibonde Technical School. This initiative stems from the organization’s ongoing engagement with youth through peace clubs established in both schools.

While working closely with students, Restoration Burundi identified a challenge affecting school attendance among girls—particularly during their menstrual periods. Some of these young girls come from underprivileged backgrounds where basic menstrual hygiene products are out of reach. As a result, girls often miss several days of school each month, impacting their academic performance and, in some heartbreaking cases, putting them at risk of exploitation in exchange for these essential supplies.

To tackle this issue, Restoration Burundi stepped in with a solution. A total of 125 packs of reusable sanitary pads—each pack containing four pads—were distributed to every girl enrolled in both schools. The provision of reusable pads not only offers an environmentally friendly and sustainable option but also ensures the girls are covered for several cycles, restoring both comfort and confidence.

Jeanne D’Arc Kamariza, a teacher at Marembo High school affectionately known by students as the "Students' Aunt" shared a moving testimony:

“Often, the girls leave class early, ashamed and unprepared when their periods start. They come to us, hiding stains with sweaters, embarrassed and helpless. Without any means to buy pads, they stay home until their periods end. This gesture you've made is more than a gift—it's a lifeline, one whose impact is deeper than you can imagine.”

One student also opened up about her experience:

“My home is very far from school, right on the Rwandan border. Sometimes I do small jobs to earn money and buy pads, but now that the school year has begun, I can't work. So when my period comes and I have no pads, I have to stay home—too ashamed to come to school. Thank you so much for this help. It means I won't have to miss class anymore.”

Through this initiative, Restoration Burundi reaffirms its commitment to empowering young girls, ensuring that no student is left behind simply because of a natural biological process. Menstrual hygiene should never be a barrier to education—and thanks to this effort, we believe the girls of Marembo and Kibonde will have improved learning conditions.