Engen has expanded its national Menstrual Care Campaign, reaching 800 learners across South Africa with reusable sanitary pad packs and menstrual health education in partnership with Proudly South African brand Palesa Pads.
The initiative follows growing public discussion around menstrual health and safety after a recent University of the Free State (UFS) study raised concerns about toxic chemical traces found in some disposable sanitary pad brands.
As part of the expanded campaign, Engen visited eight schools across South Durban, Plettenberg Bay, Gqeberha, Kroonstad and Limpopo, distributing reusable sanitary pad packs and providing practical menstrual health education to learners.
Each school received 100 care packs containing a full range of reusable pads suited to different flow needs, along with cleaning kits and educational materials to support safe, hygienic and sustainable use. The reusable pads, produced by Palesa Pads, can last up to five years — supporting learners throughout their high school journey while reducing long-term costs.
The campaign forms part of Engen’s broader national effort, launched two years ago, to address period poverty and promote dignity, confidence and school participation among young women in underserved communities.
Sherie ‘Palesa’ de Wet, founder of Palesa Pads, said access to safe menstrual products plays a critical role in restoring confidence and participation among learners.
“When girls don’t have to worry about how they’ll manage their next period, they show up differently — with confidence, focus and pride,” she said.
Engen CSI Manager Olwethu Mdabula said the campaign reflects the company’s continued commitment to gender equality and educational access.
“Access to safe menstrual care is not a luxury — it is essential. We cannot expect girls to thrive academically if they are forced to miss school due to period poverty,” she said.
Officials say the initiative not only addresses affordability challenges but also helps break stigma through open dialogue and education, empowering learners with knowledge about menstrual health and self-care.
Engen said investing in girls remains central to building stronger communities and advancing inclusive development outcomes.
