Glencore empowers girls' education by donating 97 000 sanitary towels

26 February 2025 - Glencore empowers girls' education by donating 97 000 sanitary towels A choice between dignity and education, remains a harsh reality for so many, as highlighted by the South African Journal of Child Health. An estimated 7 million girls in South Africa are forced to miss school each month due to the lack of sanitary towels. The sad reality means they lose up to 25% of learning opportunities each year, which equates to approximately 50 days absenteeism, further widening the gender gap in education and potentially limiting their future possibilities.

Glencore Coal and Ferroalloys are stepping up to break this cycle, ensuring that young girls in the communities they operate in never have to miss a day of school due to lack of sanitary towels. Glencore Coal has spearheaded the Khululeka Sanitary Towel Programme; an initiative dedicated to giving young girls the confidence and security to manage their menstrual cycles without fear or shame. Similarly, Glencore Ferroalloys Sanitary Dignity Campaign Drive aims to provide essential sanitary products and education on menstrual health, ensuring that no girl is left behind.

This crisis extends beyond the classroom and has lifelong consequences. Menstrual health is not just about hygiene; it's about dignity, opportunity, and equality. Without proper support, girls who miss school are at a higher risk of falling behind academically, dropping out of school, and even facing gender-based violence (GBV) when left vulnerable at home.

ÒWe refuse to accept a world where young girls are denied their future simply because of their biology. Through our initiatives, we are not only providing sanitary towels, but we are also restoring confidence, hope, and dignity to the young girls. This initiative removes the periodic hygiene worry for many learners and allows them to focus on their studies throughout the year." said Khomotjo Mashiane, Community Manager at Glencore Coal South Africa.

To kick-off the year, Glencore donated over 97 000 sanitary towels to more than 16 000 girl learners in various schools around eMalahleni, Mpumalanga; Rustenburg, North West and Steelpoort, Limpopo; ensuring that young girls have the support they need to stay in school and reach their full potential.   "We successfully delivered the Sanitary Dignity for All bags, and while we couldn't reach everyone in need, the impact on those individuals was significant and meaningful. We also partnered with the National Prosecuting Authority, who engaged with the girls on the topic of sexual harassment. They emphasised the importance of reporting such incidents and explained the process followed by the Thuthuzela Care Centres to support girls and boys from initial reporting through to court proceedings and beyond." said Louis Snyman, Group Manager Human Rights, Cultural Heritage and Community Health at Glencore Ferroalloys.

Glencore remains committed to bridging the gender gap in education and fostering a future where every girl can chase her dreams without limitations. Through meaningful action and dedicated partnerships, they are ensuring that menstrual health is no longer a barrier for girl learners.