Scan 4 Pads - Nabuyuni Ann Sankan - Kenya

Providing access to low-cost menstrual products

About Nabuyuni Ann Sankan's project:

Scan 4 Pads is a QR code-based android information system for the management of distribution for sanitary towels at a subsidized rate to girls in rural Narok that uses USSD technology. It was curated in December 2019 from the upcoming Maisumata initiative which when loosely translated means “Let us study” in the Maasai language.

The aim of the project is to reduce period poverty within the community and allow girls and women to gain access to proper Menstrual Health materials. Period poverty is defined as the inability to access sanitary products owing to financial constraints and lack of access to relevant information on menstruation.

Girls within the community have been affected by a myriad of issues such as missing school which greatly affects their academic performance as compared to their male counterparts. Also, stigmatization from their peers (boys), and many taboos associated with menses affect the girls’ access to information and necessary sanitary products. On the rise also is the number of early pregnancies which has led to school dropout among the girls. This is attributed to increased sexual activity between girls.

Nabuyuni Ann Sankan's mentor: Yanting Zuo from China

Like this idea? Vote for Nabuyuni Ann Sankan in the Pitching Competition! Click on the session linked below or select the first session on the ITU Innovation Community page to take part.