Nagasha Jemimah Nyakato, a civil engineer and founder/CEO of Eco Options Uganda, is transforming the intersection of women’s health, sustainability, and climate action. Her journey is rooted in her commitment to social equity, environmental stewardship, and feminism. With a visionary approach, Nagasha addresses the deeply intertwined issues of menstrual health and climate justice, empowering women to lead sustainable solutions for their communities.
Recognizing the challenges many women face regarding menstrual care, Nagasha was inspired to seek sustainable solutions that alleviate financial stress, reduce environmental waste, and uphold women’s dignity. Her journey began when she discovered menstrual cups, a cost-effective, reusable alternative to traditional menstrual products. After experiencing the life-changing benefits firsthand, she saw an opportunity to bridge a glaring gap in the local market, particularly for rural women.
Through Eco Options, Nagasha provides eco-friendly menstrual products that are accessible, affordable, and biodegradable. These innovations not only promote menstrual hygiene but also cut down on single-use waste, contributing significantly to environmental conservation. Eco Options extends beyond product delivery, engaging in capacity-building workshops, community outreach, and advocacy initiatives that amplify women’s voices in the climate justice movement.
Nagasha’s leadership also emphasizes the critical role of women in climate adaptation and resilience. She believes women in rural areas hold unique knowledge and insights about managing natural resources, which are essential for developing culturally relevant and effective solutions. By empowering these women, Eco Options fosters leadership and builds community resilience, ensuring sustainable practices take root at the grassroots level.
However, challenges persist. Deep-seated cultural taboos surrounding menstrual health, especially the use of products like menstrual cups, pose significant barriers. Through targeted education and advocacy, Nagasha and her team work tirelessly to de-stigmatize menstrual health, dismantling misconceptions and encouraging open conversations about women’s bodies and climate action.
Nagasha envisions a gender-equal and climate-resilient Africa where:
- Eco-friendly menstrual products are widespread and accessible.
- Women are at the forefront of sustainable innovations, driving local solutions that merge environmental sustainability with gender equity.
- Communities embrace circular economies, fostering environmental stewardship and economic empowerment.
- Education and advocacy empower women and youth to make informed choices, ensuring resilience to climate change.
She advises young women aspiring to lead in climate action to start small, aim big, and challenge societal norms. Nagasha emphasizes the importance of education, collaboration, and mentorship in building the next generation of leaders who will champion sustainability and equality.
Eco Options Uganda continues to bridge pressing community needs with long-term solutions, creating a more sustainable and equitable future. Individuals and organizations can support their efforts by funding local production of eco-friendly menstrual products, enhancing advocacy campaigns, and scaling up education initiatives. By investing in women-led climate solutions like Eco Options, we take a step closer to achieving a just, climate-resilient world.
Nagasha Jemimah Nyakato is proof that when women lead, communities thrive, and the planet heals. Through her relentless dedication, she is not only transforming menstrual health but also ensuring that women remain at the heart of the climate justice movement.
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