A leading cashew facility in Ogbondoroko community of the Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State has distributed menstrual and personal hygiene kits to schoolchildren and members of its communities.
Speaking during the presentation of the items, the factory manager of the Outspan Nigeria Limited Cashew team, Alhaji Idris Ajibade, said that the gesture was in a bid to demonstrate commitment to wellbeing of students and broader community.
Ajibade, who said that the cashew facility also hosted a comprehensive sensitisation event on nutrition and health, added that the event aimed to promote holistic wellness among students within the community.
He said that the factory’s management recognises the critical role women play in both the workplace and agricultural sector.
“Key discussions centered on balanced nutrition for maintaining energy levels and overall health. This effort demonstrates the cashew team’s dedication to the corporate social responsibility of prioritising the quality of life of workers and farmer-community and empowering them with valuable knowledge.
“Menstrual hygiene was another critical focus area, addressing prevalent misconceptions and providing practical guidance on maintaining personal hygiene during menstruation. The event fostered a supportive environment where women feel empowered to manage their menstrual health comfortably,” he said.
Also, the state programme coordinator for the Control and Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases from the Ministry of Health, Mrs. Bamigboye Christiana commended the factory’s alignment with national health standards.
The ministry official provided expert insights on nutrition and menstrual hygiene, highlighting health education’s pivotal role in empowering women.
“Good health starts with awareness and this initiative marks a significant step towards ensuring women in the factory and farming community are well-inforrmed about their nutritional needs and menstrual health,” Christiana said.