By Adé Yẹmí
Joy Mamkwe, a Biochemistry graduate of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), has developed an innovative reusable sanitary pad made from banana trunks — an agricultural byproduct widely available in southern Nigeria.
The Abia State-born innovator says the eco-friendly pads are entirely locally made, hygienically produced, and tailored to help low-income women and schoolgirls cope with the soaring cost of disposable sanitary products.
“Sanitary pads are simply unaffordable for many, especially rural girls and peasant women,” Mamkwe said. “I wanted to create a sustainable and affordable alternative.”
Her research began in her final year in 2022 and progressed through her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
Now in small-scale production, Mamkwe says she needs about N1.5 million to rent a space and purchase equipment to establish a standard factory — a key requirement for NAFDAC certification.
While some organizations have started placing bulk orders for schools and communities, she revealed she turned down an investor who demanded to be named co-founder, based on her mentor’s advice to retain full ownership.
Abia State Commissioner for SMEs, Mike Akpara, urged her to approach the ministry for possible support.
“We are willing to evaluate her invention and escalate it to the Governor if necessary,” he said.
Prof. Mabel Onwuka, Director of the Centre for Gender, Youth and Child Development at MOUAU, praised Mamkwe’s ingenuity.
The university’s women’s association has already purchased and distributed her pads during this year’s International Women’s Day celebration.
Mamkwe, who plans to pursue a master’s in Public Health, remains focused on scaling her innovation, empowering women, and fighting period poverty through science-driven solutions.
