Ubombo Sugar Limited has made a meaningful contribution to education in Eswatini by donating 81 pairs of school shoes and 488 packs of sanitary pads to several schools in the Big Bend and Siphoso areas. This initiative, which is part of the company’s back-to-school campaign, is designed to reduce the barriers that prevent children, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, from accessing education.
The donation ceremony, held recently, was led by Leonard Ndzimandze, the company’s Head of Corporate Affairs. He explained that the aim of the donation was to ensure that students, especially girls, can attend school without interruptions due to the lack of basic necessities. “Education is a fundamental right, and we want to make sure that every child has the opportunity to learn without the fear of missing school for reasons beyond their control,” Ndzimandze said.
A key part of the donation was the 81 pairs of school shoes given to students at Siphoso and Ndzevane Primary Schools. These shoes will ease the physical burden of walking long distances to school and provide children with a more comfortable and consistent educational experience.
In addition, Ubombo Sugar’s “End Period Poverty Campaign” aims to tackle the challenges faced by girls who often miss school during menstruation due to a lack of sanitary products. Over the course of 2025, the company plans to donate a total of 2,000 packs of sanitary pads. Partnering with Nkhabanhle Investments, one of its contractors, Ubombo Sugar donated 488 packs, as well as face towels and bar soaps to ensure girls can maintain proper hygiene during their periods.
The initiative addresses a pressing issue, as research by UNESCO has shown that 1 in 10 girls in sub-Saharan Africa miss school during their menstruation due to a lack of menstrual hygiene products. The pads donated by Ubombo are expected to last each girl for three months, with further supplies to be delivered in the coming school term.
Big Bend High School Principal, Bongisipho Vilakati, expressed appreciation for the contribution, noting that the donation will help reduce absenteeism, particularly among girls who often struggle with menstrual health challenges. “This donation is not just about providing products; it is about enabling students to stay in school and continue their education without unnecessary barriers,” Vilakati said.
Ndzimandze also acknowledged the support from Nkhabanhle Investments, emphasizing the strength of local business partnerships in tackling community challenges.
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