– “Why are condoms given out for free while sanitary pads are sold?” asks Sibusiso Mthombeni of Middelburg, sparking a heartfelt campaign called #PadAChild in Mhluzi.
The campaign aims to donate 670 sanitary pads to schoolgirls across the area in commemoration of Mandela Day on July 18, 2024. Mthombeni, from Rooialty Café, organized the initiative in partnership with LeratoTheStoryTeller.
He explained the campaign’s origins, an idea that sparked between his friend, Thato Malapane, “We noticed condoms are freely available in our shop, which led us to question why sanitary pads aren’t. Sanitary pads are a necessity, while condoms are a choice. So, for about a month now, we’ve been providing pads for free at the café.”
“As it’s Mandela Month, we decided to donate 670 pads, symbolizing the 67 minutes of service, to schools and those in need. We’re asking individuals and organizations to donate pads to help us reach our goal,” he continued.
Sanitary pads are essential yet often overlooked, especially for girls from financially strained families. “By directly addressing this need through #PadAChild, we not only support girls’ health and dignity but also promote educational equality,” Mthombeni emphasized.
Initiatives like #PadAChild not only improve hygiene and reduce absenteeism but also foster solidarity and community spirit. Mandela Month serves as a reminder of Mandela’s legacy of compassion and justice, inspiring acts of kindness across South Africa.
“I am very much excited. See, one of the things that get me super hyped and optimistic in this life, it’s making a difference in someone’s life, the fact that we are having a positive impact on our fellow sisters is all I’m living for. It keeps me lively, one can say. It is my fuel to do even better,” he concluded. To support the #PadAChild campaign, donations of pads can be dropped off at Rooialty Café
