MACL Donates to Menstrual Health Awareness Program Implemented by Zero Waste Maldives

On Wednesday, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) contributed to Zero Waste Maldives to support its Menstrual Health Awareness Program. The program is being implemented by Zero Waste Maldives in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

The Menstrual Health Awareness Program empowers girls and women in local communities to promote sustainable behaviours and lead climate-friendly menstrual health management systems. These aims also closely align with the national strategic goals to phase out single-use plastics by 2023 and strengthen women empowerment in island communities.

The donation cheque was handed over to the representatives of Zero Waste Maldives and UNFPA during a special ceremony held at the MACL Corporate Office. The cheque was presented on behalf of MACL by Deputy Managing Director Mr. Ibrahim Thoha and was received by the Co-Founder of Zero Waste Maldives, Mariyam Hamsha Hussein in the presence of Shadiya Ibrahim, Head of Office, UNFPA Maldives.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Thoha iterated on the importance of the project and stated: “We are committed to contributing to national development through NGOs and international organizations. This particular project is significant for women's health and contributes to environmental sustainability, aligning with MACL's long-term vision.”

The donation was facilitated under MACL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative which focuses on supporting young women in local islands and contributing towards national targets to phase out single-use plastics. It also reflects MACL’s commitment to eco-friendly sustainable operations that protect the delicate environment.

The program has so far had a massive reach, impacting the lives of 45,000+ across various community awareness activities. To date, the project has contributed to reducing 1.1 tons of menstrual waste annually through the distribution of more than 700+ menstrual cups and reusable pads in over 20 atolls of the Maldives. Additionally, awareness has been created across 31 sessions hosted on islands both physically and virtually.