On January 7, 2025, the ECOWAS Commission's Department of Human Development and Social Affairs (HDSA), in collaboration with the ECOWAS Gender Development Center (EGDC), conducted a consultation meeting in Dakar. The purpose was to discuss a project aimed at establishing a sanitary napkin and nappy manufacturing unit in Senegal. This meeting took place at the Ministry of the Family and Solidarity.
The initiative was led by Pr Fatou Sow Sarr, Honourable Commissioner for HDSA of the ECOWAS Commission. She was accompanied by several directors from various departments within the ECOWAS Commission.
The ECOWAS delegation met with Madame Maimouna Dieye, Minister for Family and Solidarity of Senegal. The Minister expressed appreciation for the ongoing cooperation with ECOWAS through gender promotion and women's empowerment programs. She emphasized Senegal's dedication to advancing progress for women.
Commissioner Sarr outlined her department's new strategy to create a global ecosystem that enhances ECOWAS programs supporting gender equality and women's empowerment. She detailed plans for building a facility in Senegal that will produce sanitary napkins for schoolgirls and women with obstetric fistula, as well as nappies for the elderly.
Following this discussion, a technical meeting focused on setting guidelines and priorities to ensure the project's success. The aim is to improve access to feminine hygiene products while fostering local entrepreneurship.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to backing this crucial initiative intended to benefit women and girls across Senegal.
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