Across rural Uganda, menstruation is still a major barrier to education, opportunity, and dignity. Many girls and women lack access to affordable, sustainable menstrual hygiene products, leading to missed school, shame, and health risks. 

Through U‑VOL Foundation’s HerPad Project, we’re working to break that cycle. 

Launched under the ValueHer Initiative in partnership with Ujamaa Empowerment Network, the HerPad Project is a community-driven menstrual health equity program aimed at restoring dignity, improving reproductive health, and reducing period poverty among adolescent girls and women in Luuka District, Eastern Uganda. 

In just the pilot phase, the project has: 

• Provided menstrual health education to 291 schoolgirls and 54 women 

• Trained participants in making reusable sanitary pads and introduced the use of menstrual cups 

• Offered tools for both personal hygiene and income generation through local pad-making enterprises 

This initiative reflects our integrated approach—combining WASH (clean water, sanitation, and hygiene), health education, and economic empowerment to support women and girls across the lifespan. 

Local Leadership in Action 

Our work in Uganda wouldn’t be possible without the deep collaboration of our trusted partner, Ujamaa Empowerment Network—a local grassroots organization dedicated to building self-sustaining communities through food security, healthcare access, and WASH. With their leadership, we’ve been able to deliver relevant, culturally sensitive education and support that aligns with Uganda’s national menstrual hygiene policies. 

Why It Matters 

Recent reports from UNICEF and Uganda’s Ministry of Health highlight the growing burden of period poverty—especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Up to 30% of girls miss school during their periods. Many women report missed workdays, heightened stigma, and increased risk of infection due to a lack of basic resources. 

HerPad offers a sustainable, community-based solution. 

Help Us Expand the HerPad Project 

Your support can help us reach more schools and communities in need. We are currently seeking donors and partners to scale this vital initiative across Uganda and beyond. 

Join us in restoring dignity and creating opportunity. Contact us at partnerships@u-volfoundation.org to learn how you can support HerPad.