Hybrid Sanitary Napkin for Economic Change
An innovative hybrid sanitary pad solution that addresses menstrual health challenges in Dzaleka refugee camp while creating economic opportunities for refugee women through production and sales.
About the Project
This innovative project addresses the critical challenge of menstrual health management in Dzaleka refugee camp through a unique hybrid sanitary napkin design. The solution considers both the camp’s water scarcity and waste management challenges while creating economic opportunities for refugee women.
The Challenge
- Girls miss 4-5 school days monthly during menstruation
- 300 instructional days lost before age 18 (1.5 school years)
- Severe water shortage limits reusable pad effectiveness
- Disposable pads often traded for food
- Limited waste disposal options
Innovation Solution
Hybrid Pad Design
- Part reusable, part disposable construction
- Significantly reduced water requirements
- Minimized disposable waste
- Patent-pending technology
- User-centered design with three iterations
Economic Empowerment
- Production training for refugee teens
- Local manufacturing capability
- Sales and distribution opportunities
- Sustainable income generation
- Skills development
Impact and Achievement
Production Milestones
- 1,000 pads produced and distributed
- 200 women served with menstrual solutions
- 18 teen girls trained in production
- 600 additional pads ordered by NGOs
Community Benefits
- Improved school attendance
- Enhanced economic independence
- Better menstrual health management
- Reduced environmental impact
- Local capacity building
Future Development
The project continues to expand through:
- NGO partnerships in Malawi
- Increased production capacity
- Menstrual health education programs
- Extended market reach
- Ongoing product refinement
Project Information
- MIT Solve Submission
- 2023
- Category
- Health & Economic Empowerment
- Status
- Submitted
Impact Highlights
- 1,000 pads produced and distributed
- 200 women provided with menstrual solutions
- 18 teen girls trained in production
- Multiple NGO partnerships established
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