The Nakuru County government is set to spend Sh30 million in buying sanitary pads to be distributed to schools across the county.
The money, factored in the 2015/2016 Financial Year will buy sanitary pads to be given to pupils and students in public schools.
County Public Health Officer Samuel Kingori Wairia however, said the money was insufficient to fund the project as the Health department targets 50,000 girls.
“We intend to supply each of the girls with a dozen of the towels to ensure that there is adequate supply for the vulnerable children,” he said.
Mr Kingori was speaking to the press at his office on Thursday where he said the first beneficiary schools will be those from Ngodi, Maiella, Barut, Kongoni, Nakuru West and Molo.
He said the department however, faces challenges in distributing the towels because of logistical problems.
“We are hoping that the budget for the towels will be increased," he said.
"Menstrual hygiene facilities and services keep girls in school where they can reach their full potential. UNESCO estimates that 1 out of every 10 African girls miss school during menstruation time eventually leading to a higher school drop-out rates."
"Poor menstrual hygiene not only affects physical health, but also social and mental well-being. This is a violation of the human right to health. Poor menstrual hygiene, stigmas and lack of information may result in more stress, fear, shame and social exclusion.”
Nakuru County Health Chief Executive Samuel Mwaura said the area has 620 public primary schools which have a population of 177,073 girls.