The City of Cape Town's Smart Flo programme continues to expand its reach, with 2 306 reusable menstrual kits distributed to date. To highlight World Sustainability Day, 28 October 2026, the team managed to provide 417 kits to Grade 8 girls at Malibu; Forest Heights and Tuscany Glen High Schools. During these handover sessions, the City’s Environmental Management team was able to promote menstrual dignity, educate on sewer blockage prevention and how to incorporate everyday sustainable practices for environmental protection. 

The Smart Flo programme, implemented by the City's Environmental Management Department in collaboration with the Water and Sanitation Directorate, provides learners with reusable sanitary kits and education on menstrual health, sustainable consumption and responsible waste disposal.

The latest rollout at Malibu High School, Tuscany Glen High School, and Forest Heights High was funded through the City’s ward allocation budget for Ward 17, with the support of Councillor Frans Sauls.

'The Smart Flo programme is a practical example of how environmental sustainability and the well-being of our communities go hand in hand. By providing young girls with reusable menstrual products and the knowledge on how to use and care for them, we are supporting their dignity while encouraging more sustainable practices. It is encouraging for me to see how this programme continues to reach more learners through the efforts of our City teams and the support of local communities,' said the City's Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews.

Each kit contains SABS-approved reusable sanitary pads designed to last up to five years, offering learners an alternative to single-use sanitary products that reduces waste and presents a huge cost saving over time.  

'Access to appropriate menstrual products is an important part of ensuring that young girls can manage their periods with dignity and confidence. Through this ward allocation project, we are pleased to support learners with a practical resource that can benefit them well beyond the day of distribution,' said Ward Councillor Sauls.

Since its initial pilot in Langa, the programme has completed rollouts in several areas, including Gugulethu, Bonteheuwel, Nyanga, Bishop Lavis and Manenberg. Further rollouts are planned as the programme continues to extend its reach.

Beyond the distribution of reusable products, Smart Flo raises awareness about the environmental and infrastructure impacts of inappropriate sanitary waste disposal. Sanitary products, rags and other materials flushed into the sewer system contribute to blockages, placing pressure on the City's sanitation infrastructure and resources.

By combining environmental education with practical support, Smart Flo encourages learners to make informed choices about the products they use and how they dispose of waste.