It all began on Sunday, June 30 when Nyamu disclosed that her foundation was negotiating a deal with the company to supply free tampons to schools, especially in the slums.
Nominated Senator, Karen Nyamu on Monday, July 1 claimed that her political affiliation could have resulted in a menstrual hygiene products company denying reports that they held talks with her regarding a possible partnership with her foundation.
It all began on Sunday, June 30 when Nyamu disclosed that her foundation was negotiating a deal with the company to supply free tampons to schools, especially in the slums.
She expressed her excitement at educating girls in Nairobi on how to use tampons to make them focus more on school, a move that comes despite Kenyans accusing her of supporting unfavourable tax policies, especially targeting tampons among others.
A group of school girls walking on the streets of Nairobi. /NMG
However, Kenyans came out in large numbers criticising the company to the point of threatening to boycott their products. Then, the company issued a statement.
“We hereby confirm that no discussions or conversations have taken place with Karen Nyamu. Any assertions regarding a prospective partnership involving us are entirely false.
“Our commitment remains steadfast in championing women’s progress for all Kenyans,” the company addressed.
“We emphasise that we do not engage in any political affiliations or endorsements. We maintain our dedication to transparency and accuracy in all communications.”
In response, Senator Nyamu took on the company head-on, arguing that even though it did not have to agree with her political affiliation, it could appreciate the noble cause her foundation took up to expose girls to alternative feminine hygiene products like tampons and period cups.
“You have seen me & my foundation pledge to causes and you have seen me on the ground delivering. You have also seen us take up causes that have benefited society. You have seen me announce projects that have been successful,” she addressed.
She believed that the company had likely decided to disown working with her due to the backlash received online.
“Sometimes companies forget political figures are also people and what we do to impact the community is bigger than ourselves,” she went on.
“I feel sorry for the backlash you had to endure yesterday due to my political stand at a time when political temperatures in the country are hot, forcing you to make the statement you made. our aim is not to set you up so we will let it rest there.”
Nonetheless, she announced that she and her foundation would diligently work to make sure her project comes to fruition.
“Nothing excites me and lights my soul like engaging the ground to make a difference. And to remind you that if I had listened to my critics, and trolls years ago, I wouldn’t be where I am. I only consult the word of God period,” she added.
