A factory dedicated to the production of reusable sanitary napkin kits is set to open soon in Sokodé, Togo. This initiative, backed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), was recently presented to the Minister of Social Action, Kossiwa Zinsou-Klassou, by a delegation from the organization.
The project will receive funding from the West African Health Organization (WAHO), along with support from both institutional and private partners, as part of ECOWAS’s 2050 vision, which prioritizes gender-related issues.
This initiative serves as a pilot project for the sub-regional organization, which intends to replicate it in other member states. “We aim to implement this significant project, which will serve as a model in Togo,” stated Barros Bacar Banjai, the ECOWAS representative, after engaging with Togolese officials.
Numerous community-driven initiatives have surfaced in Togo prior to this project initiated by the local institution. One notable example is Elsa M’béna Ba, who has been creating and selling reusable sanitary towels since 2020 under the Yannis-Lotiyé brand.
Read more: Togo: 2024 Outstanding Volunteer Recognition.
In addition to its social and health benefits, the establishment of this factory is expected to bolster the country’s economic growth, particularly through the generation of local employment opportunities. Furthermore, it addresses environmental issues, as disposable sanitary products contribute significantly to non-biodegradable waste.
