Bringing positive change to girls via menstrual health interventions in Botswana
Phetogo BW is a registered charitable organization based in Gaborone, Botswana. Phetogo BW aims to bring hope to communities through positive and sustainable change.
AFRIpads has been working with Phetogo BW since January 2021. We are recognizing them as our Partner of the Month for August because this small organization strongly believes that each and every life matters. Through their belief that no change is too small to have an impact, Phetogo BW has uplifted the lives of over 450 girls and counting.
AFRIpads spoke to Hannah van Rooyen, a Project Co-ordinator, from Phetogo BW. Hannah shared why Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) is important in the creation of positive change in Botswana.
Why does Phetogo BW integrate menstrual health supplies in their outreach?
Menstrual hygiene supplies, such as sanitary pads, have not been prioritized in Botswana. However, it has been one of the greatest needs. Based on this need, Phetogo BW started distributing AFRIpads Menstrual Kits to schoolgirls. So far we have donated reusable sanitary pads in 3 schools in Medie village, Gaborone, and Lobatse in Botswana.
When positivity spreads despite the circumstances…
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been hard for us to follow up with the schoolgirls after our first AFRIpads donation in April 2021. However, we have had overwhelmingly positive, and even emotional responses, from the headteacher. The school management have already fed back about the high quality and incredible softness of the AFRIpads reusable pads.
Strength in partnerships
Here at Phetogo BW, we also believe that strength lies in partnerships. Therefore, we have been working hand in hand with Lesedi Support Group and Bojesa Girls Botswana. Lesedi is an organization of women who are providing support groups for a vilage outside of Gaborone. Bojesa Girls is a girl empowerment group in Gaborone.
Thank you Phetogo BW for spreading hope!
