South African school children do not deserve this
Period poverty in South Africa is real, and affects 7,000,000 young women every year. Sadly, too many South Africans still believe this is not even an issue, which only compounds the problem.
Even the young women we help often find the subject too uncomfortable to speak about. They have no one to turn to, they are shunned during their monthly cycle, and often considered dirty.
Siyakunakekela is not only working hard to shine an international light on the scale of the problem, but we are committed to educating communities and the broader population to break the stigma, promote menstrual health, and ensure that no girl is held back simply because of her period.
To provide some clarity around the scale of the period poverty problem, here are the essential facts you must know:
7,000,000 GIRLS SUFFERING
Lack the financial means to access menstrual sanitary products
20% LOSS OF EDUCATION PER ANNUM
Each school child loses up to 10 weeks of education every year
83% CANNOT ACCESS SANITARY PRODUCTS
They rely on using rags, cardboard and other improvised methods to save their dignity
1,700 SCHOOLS HAVE UNSAFE PIT TOILETS
To add to the indignity of period poverty, too many schools do not offer sanitary conditions,
leading to risk of illness
30% OF GIRLS MISS SCHOOL DURING THEIR PERIOD
Shame, pain, and lack of access keep them at home—interrupting their education and
confidence
1 IN 4 GIRLS DROP OUT OF SCHOOL EARLY
Menstruation-related challenges contribute directly to school dropout rates among
adolescent girls
MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS ARE TAXED AS LUXURY ITEMS
Despite being essential, they remain out of reach for millions due to affordability
LACK OF EDUCATION FUELS STIGMA
Many girls are never taught about menstruation properly, leaving them confused, scared,
and isolated when their first period comes
We distribute free, high-quality, eco-friendly sanitary products to those who need them most—ensuring no girl has to miss school because of something so natural.
We campaign relentlessly to raise awareness both locally and globally, putting pressure on policymakers to prioritise menstrual health and sanitation.
Period poverty is a public health issue. It’s an educational issue. It’s a human rights issue. And until it’s solved, we won’t stop.
Join us in creating a future where no girl is left behind because of her period.
