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The detention conditions of women reveal specific challenges that remain underaddressed, particularly regarding menstrual hygiene and health.
Thiès, March 2, 2026 – As the world prepares for International Women’s Rights Day, Tostan is implementing a targeted initiative across several prisons in Senegal to improve hygiene conditions for incarcerated women.
In 2024, Senegal held more than 14 147 detainees in facilities designed for fewer than 10,000 people, resulting in an occupancy rate of approximately 140%. This overcrowding weakens detention conditions and complicates access to healthcare, water, and sanitation services. Although women represent less than 3% of the prison population, they face specific needs that are still insufficiently addressed, particularly in terms of reproductive health and menstrual hygiene.
Official reports highlight gaps in medical follow-up and hygiene conditions, exposing incarcerated women to increased risks of infections, including gynecological conditions. Irregular access to sanitary products makes menstrual management especially difficult for women with low financial resources.
In response to these challenges, Tostan is distributing reusable hygiene kits in five women’s prisons, including Dakar, Thiès, Rufisque, Mbour, and Diourbel. These kits include washable sanitary pads and essential hygiene items. Food donations and financial support will also be provided to assist the most vulnerable detainees.
An Education Program in Prison Settings
“Women’s rights do not stop at prison gates. In detention, lack of access to hygiene can turn menstrual insecurity into a real risk to women’s health and dignity,” said Rose Diop, National Coordinator of Tostan Senegal.
This initiative is part of Tostan’s Prison Project, currently implemented in nine detention facilities across Senegal. The program provides human rights education sessions, vocational training, awareness activities, family mediation, and support for social reintegration.
Since its launch, more than 1,700 beneficiaries—primarily women and girls—have been supported both during detention and in their transition back into society.
About Tostan
Based in Senegal, Tostan operates in four West African countries and has supported communities for over 30 years in achieving their vision of well-being grounded in human rights. Through its community education program delivered in local languages, the organization strengthens governance, improves social conditions, and expands opportunities for women and youth.
More information: https://tostan.org/our-work/modules/prison-project/