Kenya has launched a new strategy aimed at reducing sanitary pad costs, making them more affordable by boosting local manufacturing, introducing tax incentives and attracting investment into the country’s menstrual health sector.
The roadmap, unveiled during the Kenya Menstrual Economy Conference (KMEC) 2026 declaration at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) in Nairobi, also seeks to improve access to menstrual products for women and girls across the country.
The declaration, endorsed by government agencies, development partners, manufacturers and civil society organisations, outlines measures to strengthen Kenya’s menstrual economy while supporting local industries. One of the key commitments is the removal of taxes on sanitary towels to lower retail prices and encourage domestic production.
Alex Manyasi, the head of policy, advocacy and research at the Centre for African Progress (CentAPro), said the move is intended to ensure menstrual products are within reach of all Kenyans.
"The government has omitted taxes on sanitary towels to make the products affordable to everybody. This is part of the broader effort to ensure that menstrual health remains a priority and that no girl or woman is denied access because of cost," he said.
How Kenya seeks to reduce sanitary pad costs
The strategy also proposes the creation of a Multi-Agency Action Plan to be led by the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry. The framework is expected to bring together national and county governments, financial institutions, manufacturers, researchers and development partners to coordinate investments, policy reforms and programmes aimed at expanding access to menstrual health products.
"The goal is to build a resilient, investment-ready menstrual economy that promotes health, dignity and economic empowerment for women and girls," Manyasi added.
In addition, stakeholders committed to supporting Kenyan manufacturers through improved access to financing, certification, innovation and wider markets. The declaration also prioritises environmentally sustainable production, better waste management and increased research and investment, with the long-term goal of positioning Kenya as a regional leader in menstrual health while ensuring safe, affordable and quality menstrual products are available to women and girls nationwide.
Sanitary pad costs