100 learners at Missionvale Primary School in Gqeberha are now better equipped to manage their menstrual health with dignity and confidence, following Engen’s 2026 Menstrual Care Campaign activation held on Wednesday, 25 February.

The campaign saw learners receive reusable sanitary pad packs designed to provide long-term support; helping ensure that menstruation does not stand in the way of their education.

The activation, held in partnership with local Engen Millennium dealer Louise Peo, delivered high-quality reusable sanitary pad packs designed for long-term use.

“I’ve seen firsthand how easily young girls fall behind when they lack basic menstrual products,” said Peo. “By providing practical support and education, we are helping these learners feel confident and prepared to attend school every day.”

Through its partnership with Proudly South African brand Palesa Pads, Engen donated 100 reusable sanitary pad packs to the school. Each pack includes a range of reusable pads suited to different flow needs, along with a practical cleaning kit to ensure safe, hygienic and sustainable use. Learners also received menstrual health education materials to help break stigma and encourage open, informed conversations.

The reusable pads can be used for up to five years, offering a sustainable, safe and non-toxic alternative to disposable products and effectively supporting learners throughout their high school years.

“Access to menstrual care is not a luxury - it’s essential,” said Olwethu Mdabula, Engen’s CSI Manager. “When girls are forced to miss school due to period poverty, it impacts their confidence, academic progress and long-term opportunities. Today’s activation at Missionvale Primary is part of our broader commitment to ensuring that young women can stay in school and thrive.”

The campaign reflects the strong collaboration between Engen’s Retail team and its dealer network, with dealers deeply embedded in the communities they serve and working closely with Retail to drive meaningful, localised impact.

South Africa continues to face significant challenges around period poverty, with many girls missing school each month due to lack of access to sanitary products. By providing reusable solutions and education, the campaign addresses both the practical and social barriers that learners face.

The Gqeberha activation forms part of a national rollout, which is expected to reach approximately 800 learners across multiple provinces.

“Our pads are hygienic, safe and designed to restore dignity,” said Sherie ‘Palesa’ de Wet, founder of Palesa Pads. “When girls don’t have to worry about how they’ll manage their next period, they show up differently, with confidence, focus and pride.”

Through initiatives such as this, Engen continues to drive meaningful social impact aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality (SDG 5) and Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12).