Ethiopian women sew reusable sanitary pads
Hanan Ahmed's company produces 1,000 washable pads daily to help girls stay in school.
In Addis Ababa, Hanan Ahmed's workshop produces reusable sanitary pads from cotton fabric. Her company, Han's With Care, established in 2021, aims to provide an affordable alternative to disposable products, which Ethiopia imports entirely. The high cost of imported pads prevents many Ethiopian women and girls from affording them, leading to missed school days and potential use of unsafe alternatives.
Ahmed, 41, was inspired by her own experiences with heavy menstrual flow that caused her to miss school. She left the fashion industry to start Han's With Care, which now makes washable pads reusable for up to two years. The company produces about 1,000 pads daily, distributing them free to girls and women across Ethiopia through sponsors like banks.
At Nigat Kokeb School, 15-year-old student Betselot Mahareg reported that the reusable pads prevent leaks and embarrassment compared to disposable ones. Ahmed also aims to change attitudes towards menstruation, particularly among younger generations in Ethiopia.
Why it mattersEthiopian girls can now attend school without interruption due to menstruation, and women have a dignified and affordable option for menstrual hygiene.