At BongoHive, our alumni continue to demonstrate how innovation can drive meaningful social impact. One such leader is Mwinji Nakamba, founder of Wastemat Zambia and a Top 10 finalist of the Women in Tech Zambia programme, whose work is transforming menstrual health through technology, sustainability, and dignity.

On 23rd January 2026, Wastemat Zambia reached a national milestone with the launch of its first-ever media campaign, “Her Health, Her Walk, Her Journey,” held at Government Complex. The campaign was jointly officiated by Former First Lady Thandiwe Banda and Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana from the Ministry of Media and Information, with support from the Ministries of Education, Health, and Green Economy, alongside key partners.

The campaign centers on a powerful symbol—a 5km peri-urban and rural walkathon scheduled for 28th May 2026. The distance reflects the reality many girls face, walking long distances to school even during their menstrual periods. Through this initiative, Wastemat aims to distribute 100,000 First Ladies Hampers of Hope to girls in rural and peri-urban Zambia.

Each hamper contains Vive reusable sanitary pads, hygiene essentials, and school supplies—supporting girls to stay in school while promoting environmentally responsible menstrual care.

In the lead-up to the walkathon, Wastemat has also launched the First Ladies Hampers of Hope Essay Competition, celebrating Zambia’s First Ladies and their contribution to national development. Girls are invited to share essays and personal stories about their menstrual health experiences, with winning participants receiving a Hamper of Hope.

Mwinji’s journey—from recycling plastic waste during the 2017 cholera outbreak to leading a nationally recognised social enterprise—reflects the power of human-centered, tech-enabled solutions. To date, Wastemat has reached over 40,000 women and 10,000 girls, replaced 7.2 million disposable pads, and prevented 14 tons of CO₂ emissions.

As a BongoHive alumni, Mwinji’s work embodies innovation that is practical, inclusive, and impact-driven.

Call to Action
BongoHive invites partners, organisations, and individuals to support Wastemat Zambia by contributing to the Hampers of Hope initiative, participating in the 5km Walkathon, or collaborating to scale sustainable menstrual health solutions for girls across Zambia.