288 young Burundian refugees participated in a unique training course in the Nduta refugee camp in Tanzania from August 5 to 11, 2025. Initiated by JRS and funded through ALBOAN by the Basque Government, participants learned to make pads from cotton fabric, bamboo, buttons, and thread.

Beyond sewing, the training provided comprehensive education on menstrual management, self-care, and breaking down cultural taboos. The girls thus acquired practical skills and a better understanding of their bodies, contributing to their autonomy and well-being.
Several participants expressed their satisfaction:

“I will now be able to make pads for myself and my family,” said Justine BUKEYENEZA, who has a disability.

“I’m even thinking about starting a small reusable pad business,” emphasized Annick TWIZERE.

“This training was very meaningful and refreshing for us,” confided Latifa YOTEMEMA.

Despite this success, the project only reached 288 participants, leaving many more girls eager to learn. This

figure highlights the need to mobilize more resources to expand this transformative program.

In Nduta, learning simple skills becomes a powerful lever for the autonomy, dignity, and hope of young refugee girls.