Homa Bay gets first sanitary pad factory as local firm takes root in Suba North

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga during the launch of the county’s first sanitary pad factory in Kasgunga, Suba North constituency /Faith Matete 

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga during the launch of the county’s first sanitary pad factory in Kasgunga, Suba North constituency

Homa Bay has taken a significant step towards strengthening local manufacturing and improving menstrual health with the launch of its first sanitary pad factory in Kasgunga, Suba North constituency.

The Galentine Care Sanitary Pads Factory, a social enterprise founded by Peter McOdida, will manufacture affordable sanitary pads targeting women and girls in Homa Bay and neighbouring counties.

The facility is expected to address long-standing challenges in access to menstrual products while creating much-needed employment opportunities at the community level.

The factory will produce the Galentine Care Pad—an ultra-thin, leak-proof sanitary pad designed to provide comfort and reliability.

By manufacturing locally, the initiative aims to lower production costs and ensure a steady supply, particularly in rural and low-income areas where access to quality menstrual products remains limited.

Governor Gladys Wanga said the investment aligns with the county’s development agenda, which prioritises industries with economic and social impact.

“This project demonstrates how manufacturing can directly improve lives while growing our local economy,” Wanga said.

She said the county government is keen to support enterprises that create jobs, promote local production and respond to challenges faced by women and girls.

Menstrual health remains a major concern in many parts of Homa Bay, where girls from vulnerable households frequently miss school due to lack of sanitary products.

Local leaders say initiatives such as the Galentine Care factory could play a critical role in reducing period poverty and supporting girls’ education.

McOdida said the idea for the factory was inspired by the daily struggles of women and girls, who cannot afford commercial sanitary products.

“Our aim is to ensure menstruation does not limit opportunities,” he said.

“By manufacturing these pads locally, we are making them more affordable while building a sustainable solution that benefits the community economically.”

Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo welcomed the decision to locate the factory in Kasgunga, saying it would have a direct impact on residents.

“This factory responds to a real need that women and girls in this area have lived with for years,” she said.

“Beyond dignity, it brings jobs and economic activity to Suba North.”

County officials said the facility is expected to create direct employment opportunities in production, packaging and distribution, while also supporting small businesses involved in transport and retail.

The project also contributes to reducing reliance on imported sanitary products, in line with national manufacturing and local sourcing goals.

Production has already started with Galentine Care pads expected to reach markets across Homa Bay County and the wider Nyanza region in the coming weeks.