Girls and women in Maasai Mara were this week privileged to receive reusable sanitary towels, locally and sustainably manufactured by Pad Mad while integrating essential educational components.
The events were organized by Sopa Lodges, in collaboration with the Land and Life Foundation, which announced the launch of their CSR project aimed at addressing menstrual health challenges in the Maasai Mara region.
Speaking at the events, Hon. Moses Sikona, the Member of the County Assembly (MCA) of Narok County, expressed his support for the initiative, stating, “This project aligns with our county's commitment to sustainable development and community welfare. It is heartening to see private entities like Sopa Lodges, Land and Life Foundation and Pad Mad taking proactive steps to address crucial issues like menstrual health.”
Shalini Tak, Sustainability and Environmental Manager at Land and Life Foundation, emphasized the vital role of the program in bolstering the communities within our sphere. “Our commitment lies in cultivating sustainable livelihoods while nurturing a harmonious coexistence between humanity and our natural world”. She added
Ludi Ogot, General Manager of Masai Mara Sopa Lodge, emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “Your support and involvement is invaluable to us; as we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”
The project's partner, PadMad, a social enterprise dedicated to period dignity, will play a pivotal role. PadMad specializes in free Menstrual Health Management, Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights workshops, producing reusable, biodegradable pads certified by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), providing employment opportunities to marginalized women, and emphasizing circularity in manufacturing processes.
“We are excited to collaborate with Sopa Lodges and Land and Life Foundation to bring sustainable menstrual health solutions to the Masai Mara community,” said Madhvi Dalal, Founder PadMad. “Together, we aim to empower women and girls while promoting environmental sustainability.”
The project aims to impact over 500 students at Oloolaimutia School, supported by Sopa Lodges as part of their CSR project, and the community from five villages in the Oloolaimutia area within the Siana Conservancy – Masai Mara. Targeted were both female and male students, as reproductive health is everyone’s responsibility. Sopa staff from the community have been empowered as ambassadors to continue educating the beneficiaries as part of the project’s sustainability plan.
This initiative highlights Sopa Lodges' and Land and Life Foundation's dedication to sustainable development and social responsibility, marking a significant step towards addressing menstrual health challenges in the Masai Mara region.
