In an effort to stop period poverty for schoolchildren in rural Namibia, activist Ndapewa Ndongo has launched Project 10K, a humanitarian initiative that aims to restore the dignity of girls and support underprivileged schools.
The initiative puts into priority two urgent needs: providing sanitary pads to girls who lack access to the menstrual hygiene products, and providing proper mattresses and beds to pupils sleeping on the floor in rural hostels.
Ndongo characterises the endeavour, which targets 10 000 children starting in northern Namibia, as being based on compassion, sustainability and youth solidarity.
“I’ve collaborated with influencers because they have the ability to scale important causes and engage communities that we cannot otherwise reach. Their voices build awareness, gain credibility and drive actions. This type of exposure can attract more donors, partners and volunteers, allowing us to fulfill our missions earlier,” she says.
Included among those lending their weight is medical doctor Tuilika Andreas, who is a former Miss Namibia second runner-up and Dear Girl Namibia founder.
Andreas says the collaboration is testament to the common goal of empowering girls.
“Life-enhancing projects like Project 10K beautifully encapsulate my vision of restoring dignity. This partnership puts me among fellow like-minded changemakers who are passionate about empowering girls and women. It’s not a question of giving, it’s about building a future defined by sustainability, hope and real change in Namibia,” she says.
Also supporting the campaign is Mathew Shembonde, a healthcare expert and industrial psychologist.
Drawing on his emergency care and nursing experience, Shembonde put into perspective the physical and emotional impact of period poverty on schoolgirls.
“It affects health, self-esteem and school attendance. Provision of sanitary products and sanitary conditions allows girls to overcome obstacles and stay in school. That is a fundamental step towards empowering them to build better futures,” he adds.
Other allies of Project 10K include medical practitioners Ndapewa Amesho and Alois Calazero, who acted in the ‘King of Joburg’ series.
Ndongo says the campaign is working with donors and benefactors both at home and abroad to sponsor more children and extend its coverage across all 14 regions.
Project 10K is a call to action that unites advocacy, dignity and grassroots efforts to ensure no girl is left behind because of her period, and no child has to sleep on a cold floor in the pursuit of education.
