With period poverty continuing to affect girls across South Africa, the City of Cape Town has distributed 2 306 reusable menstrual kits to learners through its Smart Flo programme, helping improve access to menstrual products while promoting dignity and environmental sustainability.
The latest distribution saw 417 Grade 8 girls from Malibu High School, Forest Heights High School and Tuscany Glen High School in Eersteriver receive reusable menstrual kits on Wednesday 28 October, in recognition of World Sustainability Day.
The programme aims to address menstrual health needs by providing learners with reusable sanitary products and education on menstrual health, sustainable consumption and responsible waste disposal.
Implemented by the City’s Environmental Management Department in collaboration with its Water and Sanitation Directorate, Smart Flo also seeks to reduce the environmental impact of disposable sanitary products and prevent sewer blockages caused by inappropriate waste disposal.
The latest rollout was funded through the City’s Ward 17 allocation budget, with support from ward councillor Frans Sauls.
City support
The City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayco member for spatial planning and environment, Eddie Andrews, said the programme demonstrated how environmental sustainability and community well-being could work together.
“The Smart Flo programme is a practical example of how environmental sustainability and the well-being of our communities go hand in hand. By providing young girls with reusable menstrual products and the knowledge on how to use and care for them, we are supporting their dignity while encouraging more sustainable practices.
“It is encouraging for me to see how this programme continues to reach more learners through the efforts of our City teams and the support of local communities,” he said.
Each kit contains South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)-approved reusable sanitary pads designed to last up to five years, providing an alternative to single-use products while offering potential cost savings for families.
Sauls said access to menstrual products was essential to ensuring young girls could manage their periods with dignity and confidence.
“Through this ward allocation project, we are pleased to support learners with a practical resource that can benefit them well beyond the day of distribution,” he said.
Wider reach
Since its initial pilot in Langa, Smart Flo has been rolled out in several communities, including Gugulethu, Bonteheuwel, Nyanga, Bishop Lavis and Manenberg, with further distributions planned.
In addition to addressing menstrual product access, the programme educates learners about the consequences of flushing sanitary products, rags and other materials down toilets.
These items contribute to sewer blockages, placing additional pressure on the City’s sanitation infrastructure and resources.
Through its combination of practical support and environmental education, the programme encourages learners to make informed decisions about menstrual health and waste disposal.
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