UNBS moves to cut Cost of menstrual products through new standards and policy reforms
The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has reiterated its commitment to strengthening product standards and supporting policy reforms aimed at improving access to safe and affordable menstrual health products in Uganda.
This was highlighted during a two-day Menstrual Hygiene Symposium held in Kampala from April 8–9, 2026, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Sanitation and Hygiene Fund. The event brought together more than 100 stakeholders from government, private sector, civil society, and development partners.
Speaking at the symposium, Hajj Aziz Mukota, Manager Testing Services at UNBS, emphasized the importance of standards in protecting public health and ensuring product quality.
He noted that menstrual health is linked to human rights, dignity, health, and gender equity, adding that UNBS continues to ensure all menstrual products on the market comply with national standards.
UNBS has developed several standards for menstrual products, including those for disposable sanitary towels, reusable sanitary towels, menstrual cups, and tampons.
The symposium also highlighted Uganda’s participation in international standard-setting through ISO Technical Committee 338, which focuses on menstrual products. UNBS contributes through its Technical Committee on textiles and related products.
Participants discussed measures to strengthen Uganda’s role in global standards development, reduce the cost of menstrual products through tax and regulatory reforms, promote local manufacturing, and improve access for underserved communities.
Stakeholders noted that many girls in Uganda miss school due to lack of access to affordable menstrual products and adequate sanitation facilities, underscoring the need for coordinated policy and market interventions.
UNBS reaffirmed its collaboration with government agencies, development partners, and the private sector to promote innovation, research, and the production of quality-assured menstrual health products.
