Spotlights Series

The RGHI Spotlights Series showcases researchers’ inspiring work on improving global hygiene and health outcomes. In each post, we highlight a project funded through an RGHI grant or fellowship, detailing its goals, progress, and potential impact. These spotlights celebrate innovation and collaboration in tackling some of the world’s most pressing hygiene challenges. To learn more about RGHI-funded research and its contributions to advancing hygiene and health worldwide, explore our research portfolio.  

This week, we highlight the work of Mandikudza Tembo, an RGHI Fellow, whose research seeks to transform women’s lives through menstrual health innovation. By amplifying women’s voices and fostering community-led initiatives, her work is challenging stigma and advancing gender equity in hygiene and health. Inadequate access to menstrual health resources means that many women in low- and middle-income countries miss school or work or have to use unsafe materials that can impact their health. In Zimbabwe, the unmet need for menstrual health resources perpetuates gender hygiene-related inequalities with broader health, social, and economic impacts..   

Through Mandikudza’s research across Harare, Mashonal and East Bulawayo, women are finding their voices and collaborating to create solutions that work for their communities.What makes this research truly impactful is its participatory action approach. By gathering real-life experiences from women through crowdsourcing, producing educational films to destigmatise menstruation, and directly engaging with healthcare providers, the project is building sustainable tools that will continue to have an impact long after the research concludes.  

As one of the first rigorous research initiatives of its kind in Southern Africa, this research fosters collaboration between healthcare providers, women and community stakeholders to drive sustainable and meaningful change. Placing women’s lived experiences at the forefront, Mandikudza’s work exemplifies RGHI’s commitment to advancing hygiene and health through community-driven initiatives to open pathways to broader social transformation.  

“Mandikudza’s research is a crucial step toward ensuring women’s health and hygiene needs are no longer sidelined but recognised as essential to community development. When women thrive, entire communities benefit.” 

Sarah Roberts, Executive Director, RGHI  

Stay tuned for more insights from leading researchers in the field.