HOMA Bay County, Kenya, Jan 29 – Homa Bay has marked a major milestone in local manufacturing and women’s health with the launch of its first sanitary pad factory in Suba North Constituency.
The Galentine Care Sanitary Pads Factory, officially opened in Kasgunga, aims to provide affordable menstrual products while creating new jobs and promoting dignity for women and girls across the region.
The factory is a social enterprise dedicated to producing sanitary pads locally, reducing dependence on imported products that are often expensive and inaccessible for many families.
The launch ceremony drew county leaders, national government representatives, community members, women’s groups, and youth from across Suba North. Governor Gladys Wanga presided over the event, describing the factory as a strong signal of Homa Bay’s readiness to support meaningful investment.
“This facility meets a vital community need and demonstrates Homa Bay’s commitment to investment and community development,” said Governor Wanga.
The initiative aligns with the county’s agenda to promote manufacturing, create jobs, and improve quality of life for residents.
The factory will produce the Galentine Care Pad, designed to be ultra-thin, leak-free, and comfortable for everyday use. Founder Peter Omondi McOdida explained that the project was inspired by the challenges faced by girls missing school and women struggling to afford sanitary products.
“Our goal is to ensure no woman or girl is held back by lack of access to quality menstrual care,” McOdida said.
Suba North MP Millie Mabona welcomed the factory, noting that it directly addresses the needs of local women and girls while generating employment opportunities for youth and women, both at the factory and across supply chains.
Local residents expressed optimism that the factory would boost living standards in Kasgunga and surrounding areas. A community elder said:
“We have watched our daughters struggle for many years, and today we see a real solution coming to our doorstep.”
The factory is expected to employ workers in production, packaging, distribution, and administration, while small businesses such as transporters, suppliers, and retailers are likely to benefit from the economic ripple effect.
Health advocates highlighted that affordable and accessible sanitary products can reduce school absenteeism among girls and improve overall health outcomes. Jane Atieno, a local women’s group representative, emphasized that the initiative restores dignity and confidence to women and girls.
The Galentine Care Sanitary Pads Factory is now operational, with products expected to reach shops and institutions across Homa Bay County and neighboring regions in the coming weeks.
