By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal
The Resident Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Nigeria, Ms. Muriel Mafico, has called for increased local production of essential commodities as a sustainable solution to Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.
Mafico made the call on Thursday in Ilorin, during the inauguration of a reusable sanitary pad factory established by the Royal Heritage Health Foundation (RHHF).
UNFPA, RHHF commission re-usable sanitary-pad factory in Kwara
According to her, the project is laudable as it aims to tackle period poverty and improve menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls and women.
She said Nigeria must look inward and invest in homegrown solutions that create jobs, empower women, girls, and reduce dependence on importation.
Mafico argued that the solution to Nigerian’s socio-economic problems lay in what it produces locally, stressing that when it is local, it creates jobs, empowers women, keeps girls in school and builds dignity.
According to the UNFPA boss, the establishment of the factory demonstrates what Nigerians are capable of doing.
“The factory will address the key issue of menstrual health and also reduce importation of sanitary pads,” she said.
Mafico commended RHHF for the initiative, describing it as “culturally sensitive, community-owned and aligned with UNFPA’s mandate to ensure no woman or girl is left behind.”
Earlier, The Chief Executive Officer of RHHF, Mr Elijah Sogunro, explained that the project was not just about pads, but also about health, dignity, education, and economic empowerment.
He commended UNFPA for their support in the project and training the factory workers for six months, stressing that “the training has improved the capacity of the workers.”
Sanitary pad factory in Kwara
Sogunro disclosed that the project would be replicated in other parts of the country.
According to him, the factory products which are low-cost, washable and reusable pads, would be supplied to schools, health centres and Internally Displaced Persons camps across Kwara.
He also disclosed that young women would be trained in the production and distribution of reusable pads to create livelihood opportunities.
A pharmacist at RHHF, Mr Peter Oluwaseun, said that the sanitary pad materials were compatible with skin and absorbent.
“The product is exposed to ultraviolet light and sterilised from impurities and microorganisms. It guarantees safety and durability to frequent wash,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Edith Bolokor