Kenya's First Women-Led Pad Factory Fights Period Poverty in Homa Bay

Homa Bay County has opened a new women-led factory producing affordable sanitary pads to tackle period poverty. The Galentine Care Sanitary Pad Factory, launched in Kasgunga Ward, aims to cut school absenteeism among girls and reduce teenage pregnancies. Governor Gladys Wanga officially inaugurated the facility, calling it a key step in addressing poverty and menstrual health equity challenges.

The factory will sell locally made sanitary pads at up to 60% below current market prices, with packs starting from Sh50. Part of the production will be donated to schools across Homa Bay County, ensuring students have reliable access to menstrual products.

Governor Wanga highlighted the link between period poverty, teenage pregnancy, and household struggles in the region. Homa Bay has Kenya's highest teenage pregnancy rate, with over 17,000 cases in 2024 and more than 10,000 new cases by mid-2025. Many girls miss school due to a lack of sanitary pads, and some face exploitation trying to afford them.

The project also focuses on job creation, starting with 17 women and planning to expand to over 200 employees within three years. By 2028, the company aims to support over 430,000 women while reinvesting profits into free pad distributions and further employment.

The factory serves as a model for Kenya's ongoing debate on menstrual health policies and school access to sanitary products. Its launch follows concerns that menstruation remains a barrier to education, particularly in rural and low-income areas.

The Galentine Care factory will provide cheaper pads, create jobs, and supply schools with free products. Its long-term goals include reaching hundreds of thousands of women and reducing absenteeism linked to health insurance coverage. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to improve menstrual health and economic opportunities in Homa Bay.