The Reality in Gambia: Struggles to Afford Sanitary Pads

A Hidden Struggle in Gambia

In Gambia, a small West African country surrounded by Senegal, life is a daily challenge for many. Officially home to 2.5 million people, the actual population is even larger due to unregistered births and migration from neighboring countries. Despite its warm smiles and rich culture, Gambia struggles with deep-rooted poverty, which affects even the most basic aspects of life.

Among these challenges is a silent but significant issue: menstrual health. For countless young girls, managing their menstrual cycles is not just a matter of hygiene but a barrier to education, dignity, and opportunity.

More Than Just a Cost

For many families, the cost of a single pack of sanitary pads—about $1.50—is unimaginable. Instead, girls resort to using cloth or rags, which are uncomfortable, unhygienic, and often unsafe. This lack of proper menstrual products forces many girls to miss school during their periods. Over time, these absences can lead them to fall behind in their studies or even drop out entirely.

Without proper sanitary supplies, these girls are robbed of their chance to learn, grow, and dream of a brighter future.

Restoring Hope: Sanitary Pads Distribution Project

Thanks to generous donations, a sanitary pads distribution project has begun, bringing much-needed relief to schoolgirls in Gambia. By providing these essential supplies, we are helping girls manage their periods safely and focus on their education. Many of them now attend school regularly and participate in activities with renewed confidence.

However, the need is immense, and the fight is far from over. Together, we can ensure that no girl has to choose between her education and her basic needs.