Market Study and Mapping of Existing Supply Chain of Menstrual Hygiene Products

Synopsis:

This market study was conducted as part of the larger three-year ‘HerWASH’ project by Water Aid, which aimed to address menstrual hygiene management (MHM) issues for women and adolescent girls in district Thatta, Sindh. The project followed a rights-based approach, empowering women and girls to understand and articulate their needs for safe menstrual hygiene practices, while also engaging institutions and stakeholders to provide girls and women-friendly awareness training, hygienic facilities, and menstrual hygiene products in schools, healthcare centers, and communities. The market study specifically focused on Taluka Mirpur Sakro to determine community access to MHM products and identify the sources supplying these materials.

Narrative of the Project Description:

Background:

 The ‘HerWASH’ project sought to address menstrual hygiene challenges and promote awareness about safe menstrual practices in district Thatta, Sindh. The project aimed to empower women and girls to demand their rights while engaging stakeholders to provide necessary services and facilities.

Objectives:

– Assess the availability of menstrual hygiene products in Taluka Mirpur Sakro.
– Identify the sources supplying menstrual hygiene products to the community.
– Analyze the existing supply chain for menstrual hygiene products, including retail, social enterprises, local or international NGOs, and links to district and provincial level supply.
– Identify gaps in the existing supply chain for MHM products, considering formal and informal businesses or traditions.
– Understand the demand, access, and challenges faced by adolescent girls and women in accessing menstrual health products in schools, healthcare facilities, market areas, and communities.
– Evaluate the availability of sanitary/MHM products through formal and informal means, including service providers and entrepreneurs.

Project Impact: 

By conducting the market study and mapping the existing supply chain of menstrual hygiene products, the project contributed to creating a sustainable supply chain for MHM products, especially in rural and remote areas. It provided valuable insights into formal and informal businesses and traditions related to MHM products, allowing for targeted interventions and improved access to hygienic menstrual products for women and girls in the region.