Availability of sanitary towels in primary schools

A new report by Usawa Agenda has revealed major gaps in menstrual hygiene support in Kenyan primary schools, despite improved access to sanitary towels in some institutions.

According to the 2026 findings, 81.2 per cent of learners nationally reported availability of sanitary towels in schools.

Public primary schools recorded the highest access at 85.2 per cent, followed by refugee community schools at 77.8 per cent and private schools at 57.5 per cent.

However, the report highlights a worrying shortage of essential supporting facilities such as changing rooms and disposal systems.

Only 27.6 per cent of schools nationally had bathing or changing rooms, while disposal facilities stood at 65.3 per cent.

Public schools recorded just 25.1 per cent availability of changing rooms, while refugee community schools had the lowest at 22.2 per cent.

The findings underline ongoing challenges facing menstrual hygiene management in schools, with activists calling for increased investment in safe, dignified and girl-friendly sanitation infrastructure across the country.