by Juliet Muema, Mentorship Officer – The Action Foundation
A photo of girls lifting dignity kits at Kibarani Primary School in Kilifi
For more than 15 years, The Action Foundation (TAF) has led efforts to break the social and economic barriers that hold back girls and women with disabilities in Kenya. Through our transformative Ibuka program, which focuses on Adolescent Girls and Young Women’s Leadership Development, we have reached girls in informal settlements and rural areas across the country, helping them rise as confident, informed, and empowered individuals.
Menstrual Hygiene as a Game Changer
For girls with disabilities living in Kenyan informal settlements like Kawangware and Kibera, managing menstrual hygiene isn’t just a challenge; it can feel like an impassable obstacle. Without access to basic supplies, many are forced to miss school during their periods, which takes a toll not only on their education but also on their self-esteem and confidence.
A photo of the items included in the dignity kits
TAF distributes Dignity Kits during Ibuka mentorship and life skills sessions; these kits are more than just supplies —they’re a powerful symbol of care, empowerment, and equity. Each kit contains essentials to help girls manage their periods with dignity: three sanitary pads, two tissue papers, a bar of soap, toothpaste, a toothbrush, petroleum jelly, and a pair of innerwear. These small items make a monumental difference.
Empowerment Through Connection
A photo of Seline, a TAF Team Member training the girls on Menstrual Health
The Ibuka sessions go beyond simply distributing kits—they create a safe, supportive space led by trained facilitators, where girls come together for open and honest conversations about menstrual hygiene, self-advocacy, building confidence, and more. The girls ask questions, share their experiences, and uplift one another. It’s not just about hygiene, it’s about humanity, connection, and building a community where every girl feels seen and valued.
Making an Impact Across Kenya
A photo of girls posing for a photo after receiving dignity kits at St. Angela School for the Deaf, Mumias
In 2024 alone, TAF reached over 1,200 girls across Kenya, from Kibera, Kilifi, Machakos, Mumias, and beyond. By partnering with 35 special schools, local communities, and government stakeholders, we’ve brought dignity and opportunity to girls who need it most.
Impact Created
The impact of these efforts goes far beyond the numbers. Confidence Soars: Girls report feeling more self-assured and capable of managing their periods without fear or shame, an observation that their teachers have also confessed. School Attendance Rises: With the right supplies and knowledge, girls are staying in school consistently, keeping their education on track. Dreams Grow Bigger: With barriers removed, these girls are envisioning brighter futures and pursuing their ambitions with hope.
Challenges and Future Plans
A photo of the team from Ministry of Education DSNE, TAF, Teachers and Students with their dignity kits at St. Kizito School for the Deaf, Sotik
Of course, no mission is without its hurdles. One of our biggest challenges has been meeting the overwhelming demand for Dignity Kits. TAF has worked tirelessly to procure extra kits, but this experience has taught us valuable lessons. Through Kuza, our Adolescent and Youth Empowerment Program, TAF has also initiated a post-secondary empowerment program that focuses on skills building, equipping girls to meet their menstrual health needs long after graduation.
Powered by Partnership
None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our partners. WomenStrong International, Handprint, the Ministry of Education’s Directorate of Special Needs Education, and the Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Department have joined forces with us to build a world where no girl is left behind. Together, we’re creating lasting change.
A Call to Rise Together
At The Action Foundation, we believe every girl deserves to feel confident, clean, and cared for every single day. Menstrual health isn’t just about hygiene; it’s about human rights, education, and empowerment. As we continue this journey, we invite you to stand with us. Because when girls emerge with dignity, we all rise.