By Obas Esiedesa

The Rotary Club of Abuja Gwarinpa Central has commissioned a soak-away system, planted trees and distributed sanitary pads to female pupils of LEA Primary School, Gwarinpa, as part of efforts to improve sanitation, environmental sustainability and menstrual hygiene in the community.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony held at the school on Friday, President of the club, Rtn. Ama Umoren, said the projects were designed to address critical community needs while advancing Rotary International’s humanitarian objectives.

Umoren described the projects as practical interventions aimed at improving public health, supporting education and promoting environmental protection.

She said: “We gather not merely to commission projects, but to celebrate service above self in action. We are here to dedicate a soak-away system, undertake tree planting, and distribute sanitary pads to young girls, three projects that address critical needs in sanitation, environmental sustainability, and menstrual hygiene”.

According to her, the initiatives align with Rotary’s key areas of focus, including disease prevention and treatment, water, sanitation and hygiene, basic education and literacy, community economic development, and environmental protection.

Umoren, who highlighted the importance of the sanitation project, said the newly constructed soak-away system would help create a healthier and cleaner learning environment for pupils and teachers.

“The soak-away system we commission today is more than a physical structure. It is an investment in public health, dignity and a cleaner learning environment for pupils and teachers. Proper sanitation remains fundamental to healthy communities, and we are proud to contribute to that objective,” she stated.

On environmental sustainability, she said the tree-planting exercise reflected Rotary’s commitment to safeguarding the environment for future generations.

“Every tree planted today is a promise to future generations—a promise of cleaner air, a healthier ecosystem and a greener planet. Rotary recognizes that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility, and we are determined to play our part,” she added.

Umoren also stressed the significance of providing sanitary pads to young girls, noting that inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products remains a challenge that affects girls’ education and well-being.

“Too many girls miss school or face unnecessary challenges because they lack access to menstrual hygiene products. By providing these materials and promoting awareness, we are helping to preserve their dignity, support their education and encourage their confidence,” she said.

She commended the support of Rotary District Governor, Princess Joy Okoro, Assistant Governor Olajumuoke Ekeinde, club members, donors and partners whose contributions made the projects possible.

Speaking at the event, the District Governor, Joy Okoro urged the school to take proper care of the facility provided for the school.

Responding, the Head Teacher, Mrs. Yerimah Catherine Jatou, thanked the club for providing the pads and the soakaway system, assuring that both the newly planted trees and toilet facility would be maintained.