Germany’s development agency GIZ has begun distributing 5,000 dignity kits to women and girls across South Sudan through its ResPEct programme, aiming to improve menstrual health management and support women’s participation in education and community life.
The latest phase of the initiative saw GIZ hand over 1,822 dignity kits to humanitarian organisation IsraAID on Wednesday as part of an ongoing distribution to government institutions and partner organisations.
Last week, GIZ distributed 1,700 kits to implementing partners, including the Central Equatoria State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, the Women Foundation for Humanity and Star Trust Organisation.
The ministry received 1,100 kits for distribution through the One Stop Centre in Juba and its community networks, while other partner organisations will distribute the kits in Gondokoro, Luri, Mangalla and Rajaf.
The kits contain menstrual hygiene products and other essential items intended to improve comfort, privacy and self-care for women and girls. The programme also includes community awareness campaigns aimed at reducing stigma surrounding menstruation and promoting gender inclusion.
Central Equatoria State Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare Elizabeth Pita Lugor said partnerships between government and humanitarian organisations were important in ensuring women and girls have access to essential supplies.
Katrin Bilger, ResPEct programme implementation manager, said providing basic necessities could help strengthen the resilience and confidence of women and girls.
GIZ said the distribution campaign is continuing and is expected to reach a total of 5,000 dignity kits. Partner institutions will oversee community-level distribution alongside awareness activities on menstrual health, dignity and inclusion.
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