The possibilities that could be unlocked through the sanitary product developed by a final-year Psychology student at the University of the Free State (UFS) are becoming clear after many years’ dedicated work.
The product is the brainchild of Katleho Leqheku, founder and chairperson of the registered non-profit organisation Alnisa Continua.
Leqheku’s idea for affordable and reusable sanitary products was conceived in 2019. During lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, she worked on putting the puzzle together as to how to get the product out on the market.
The product has since been registered, and with the government putting standards in place pertaining to reusable sanitary products, Leqheku’s product can find a foothold.
She said the product distinguished itself in two respects: being affordably priced and being reusable.
“The affordability of this sanitary towel involves the goal of making it accessible in most retail stores at only R3,” said Leqheku.
She explained that the aim of producing this type of sanitary towel was to contribute to the fight against period poverty.
“All too many young girls and women are unable to afford sanitary products due to their challenging backgrounds and end up using unhygienic ways to get by.
“I also noticed that most of my peers were struggling to afford sanitary towels and were too shy to seek help.”
Leqheku said that the organisation was the best vehicle to popularise the product.
“I started the organisation because I saw a gap at the university residence, with no women empowerment and most female students not putting themselves out there to be heard.
“I realised that working together as a society, challenges such as period poverty, the stigmatisation of mental health issues and girl-on-girl hate can be overcome.
“The team aims to grow the organisation by working with high schools and opening branches outside the university.
Leqheku said Alnisa Continua has embarked on health talks at half of students’ residences on the Bloemfontein campus to support and awaken the sleeping giants in female students.
“We encourage students to believe that you are not defined by your background,” said Leqheku.
