Vivo Energy expands dignity programme, reaches more Kakamega students
Vivo Energy Kenya has expanded its school dignity programme in Kakamega County, donating thousands of menstrual hygiene products to learners in a move aimed at reducing absenteeism and improving school retention among vulnerable students.
The energy firm, in partnership with the Kakamega Forest Heritage Foundation, donated 4,800 sanitary pads, 1,600 panties and 450 boxers to students at Lugala Education Complex as part of the third year of the initiative that seeks to keep more children, especially girls, in school.
The latest donation builds on a programme launched in 2024 that has so far distributed more than 10,000 sanitary pads, 3,487 panties and 1,204 boxers, alongside soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes, to learners across Kakamega County.
Partnership targets school absenteeism
Vivo Energy Kenya Communications Manager Angela Munyua said the initiative is part of the company’s sustainability agenda aimed at eliminating barriers that prevent children from accessing education.
“We want every child to stay in school, especially girls who often miss classes because they cannot access sanitary products. Through this partnership, we are promoting dignity, better health and equal opportunities for learners to achieve their full potential,” she said.
She challenged other organisations and well-wishers to support similar initiatives to ensure no learner misses school because of a lack of basic hygiene products.
According to Vivo Energy Kenya, access to menstrual hygiene products remains a challenge for many learners, with girls missing an average of three to four school days every month due to lack of sanitary pads. The company said prolonged absenteeism contributes to poor academic performance and increases the risk of school dropout.
Programme expands to more schools
Lugala Secondary School Principal Okwara Oliver said the annual donations have had a positive impact on learners by improving attendance, confidence and academic performance among girls.
“The annual donation of sanitary pads and underwear has transformed the lives of many of our students. Girls are now attending school more consistently and participating fully in classroom activities without fear or embarrassment,” he said.
Kakamega Forest Heritage Foundation Director of Programmes Hannington Kimathi Khayati said Vivo Energy Kenya’s support has enabled the foundation to expand the programme from just two schools to 15 schools across Kakamega County.
He said the partnership has reached more than 1,500 girls and 1,600 boys this year through the provision of dignity kits and life skills education.
Beyond distributing hygiene products, the initiative also includes mentorship sessions on menstrual health, personal hygiene and life skills to help learners make informed choices and reduce cases of early pregnancies.
The programme forms part of Vivo Energy Kenya’s broader community investment strategy focusing on education, health, environmental conservation and youth empowerment, with the company saying it remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve learning outcomes and create lasting social impact.
