In a drive to support young female learners, Engen has launched a new menstrual care campaign that provides girls in need with reusable sanitary pads.

Teaming up with the Komani Foundation and Candice Chirwa, affectionately known as the "Minister of Menstruation,” Engen launched the campaign on 25 November at Tembaletu School LSEN (Learners with Special Education Needs) in Gugulethu, Cape Town and visited Nkazimulo Primary School in Khayelitsha on Monday, December 2nd.

The menstrual care campaign will roll out in eight provinces in 2025, with a total of 800 care packs reaching learners.

This campaign not only addresses period poverty but also promotes a sustainable solution, enabling girls to focus on their studies without interruptions caused by menstrual health challenges.

Up to seven million girls in South Africa either cannot afford sanitary products or lack access to them, with around 30% of girls missing school each month due to their periods. This campaign is especially crucial to help girls focus on their education without the worry of missing critical school days due to menstruation.

“In alignment with our CSI strategy, Engen is moving from providing disposable pads to sustainable, reusable menstrual products, offering a long-term solution that respects both people and the planet,” says Olwethu Mdabula, Engen’s CSI manager.

“We cannot thrive as a society if some of our female learners are left behind because they’re unable to attend school due to feminine hygiene issues. This is why we are so passionate about this campaign – by supporting these young girls, we can help uphold their dignity and ensure they never have to miss school because of their monthly cycles.”

The principal of Tembaletu School, Mr Ayanda Mtshazo shared his excitement about the initiative:

“This campaign addresses a critical need and helps remove barriers to education for young girls. By introducing reusable sanitary products, Engen is empowering our girls to achieve their full potential without worrying about missing school. We are grateful to be part of this impactful journey.”

As one of only four schools in the Western Cape offering a mainstream curriculum to learners with physical disabilities, Tembaletu School caters to students from a wide catchment area, including Gugulethu, Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Phillipi, Delft, and as far as Paarl, Stellenbosch, Hout Bay, and Da Noon.

Each Engen Care Pack Includes:

•     A menstruation station book – providing vital menstrual education

•     A menstrual tracker diary – to help girls track their cycles

•     Reusable pads – a sustainable alternative to disposable products

•     A hot water bottle – for comfort

•     An Engen-branded string bag – for convenience and storage

"Minister of Menstruation" Candice Chirwa is a key figure in this campaign, focusing on educating learners and dismantling stigmas around menstrual health.

"The stigma around sexual, menstrual, and reproductive health fosters harmful ideas and practices, especially against women and girls. Period poverty directly impacts access to education and contributes to the cycle of poverty," says Chirwa.

"It’s critical for governments, communities, and corporates like Engen to invest in promoting the dignity of menstruating individuals. While promoting menstrual education can face societal resistance, it is a commitment I am willing to pursue with resilience. My role in this campaign reflects a dedication to overcoming obstacles, breaking down taboos, and promoting inclusivity for all.”

Sustainable Change with Engen

Engen’s decision to embrace reusable menstrual products aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). This shift is not only cost-effective but also an impactful way to address period poverty while supporting environmental and social well-being.

Mdabula adds, “Engen is deeply committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and we believe access to quality education and gender equality are collective responsibilities. By standing together with our partners and the communities we serve, we aim to drive positive change that honours the dignity and potential of every young girl.”

Engen hopes to build awareness around menstrual health, empower young women, and help shape a future where every girl has the resources to succeed.

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