Refugee settlements -UNFPA, DTB donate 395 m to empower girls in settlements for reproductive health

The United Nations Population Fund and Diamond Trust Bank have partnered to empower girls by improving menstrual hygiene education in Uganda’s marginalized communities. This US$ 106,458 partnership will also enhance integrated sexual and reproductive health and rights in refugee settlements and host communities. The contribution will provide 10,000 vulnerable schoolgirls with reusable sanitary pads. This initiative complements a 55 billion UGX program launched by the Danish government in collaboration with UNFPA, which will run from 2024 to December 2027. Gift Malunga, the UNFPA country representative, emphasized that this support will improve access to sexual and reproductive health information among young people aged 10-24 in refugee settlements and host communities. Mbabazi Emejeit, the Executive Director of Diamond Trust Bank, highlighted that nearly a quarter of girls aged 12-18 drop out of school once they begin menstruating. This initiative aims to create sustainable health improvements and gender equality, contributing to the overall development and empowerment of Uganda's youth.