Fatih Ak, Türkiye’s ambassador to Uganda, celebrated International Women’s Day, stressing the importance of hygiene products for women and girls. During an event, TIKA donated equipment for making reusable sanitary pads to Msichana Uganda to support women’s empowerment. The initiative aims to improve hygiene awareness and create job opportunities, reflecting Türkiye’s commitment to women’s rights and development in Uganda.
On International Women’s Day, Türkiye’s ambassador to Uganda, Fatih Ak, emphasized the critical need for essential hygiene products for women and girls in Uganda. This acknowledgment occurred during an event where Türkiye’s state aid agency, TIKA, donated equipment designed for the production of reusable sanitary pads, aiming to support young women’s pursuit of economic independence.
The donation, which included sewing and overlock machines, was given to Msichana Uganda, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering girls and women. Ambassador Ak remarked, “As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we are delighted to mark another successful project under TIKA here in Uganda, emphasizing our shared commitment to progress in development cooperation.”
Since the early 2000s, TIKA has completed 94 projects in Uganda, significantly impacting local communities. Ak further stated, “With this latest initiative, we are proud to support Msichana Uganda in its mission to improve the quality of life for women.”
Notably, Türkiye was among the first nations to grant women fundamental rights, including the right to vote, as early as 1934, well before several European countries. Murat Cetin, TIKA’s country coordinator, announced that the new equipment would create job opportunities for young women while enhancing awareness of hygiene.
Winnie Nakandi, director of Msichana Uganda, expressed gratitude for the Turkish support, stating that empowering women is vital to achieving justice and social prosperity. She emphasized the importance of accessible reusable pads for underprivileged girls and women, who often find disposable products financially inaccessible.
Reusable sanitary pads present a sustainable alternative to disposable options, addressing both hygiene and economic challenges faced by low-income individuals in the region.
The Turkish ambassador’s observance of International Women’s Day underlines the importance of essential hygiene products for women in Uganda. Through TIKA’s contributions, initiatives like the promotion of reusable sanitary pads can enhance the quality of life for women, foster economic independence, and empower local communities. This commitment not only strengthens bilateral relationships but also contributes significantly to social justice and the visibility of women’s contributions in society.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
