Menstrual Hygiene

Based on feedback from the needs assessment conducted in spring 2023, focus groups of women informed MIGHTi of the disparities that exist around menstrual hygiene in the Mungu community. Of course, MIGHTi was motivated to work with the women and girls in the community to address the issue.

Thanks to a 4W Innovation Award from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, MIGHTi is launching the “Munzi ni Munzi Amayi” (A Woman is a Village) project in 2025 to address menstrual poverty in the Mungu through a community-driven Women’s Shop with an attached Tea Room/Salon. The shop will offer a wide variety of menstrual products and household essentials at subsidized prices, along with fresh produce from the MIGHTi farm and specialty goods tailored to the local community. As the first of its kind in the area, the shop will also have a work-for-credit system, ensuring that those who cannot afford to pay still have access to the items they need. This model provides the dignity of choice while affirming that every women deserves autonomy in caring for her body. Looking ahead, the shop envisions women producing and selling their own goods, including menstrual pads and soap, creating additional opportunities for income and empowerment. Additionally, the shop will serve as a safe gathering space where women can connect, support one another, and receive training on women’s health and wellbeing.