Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

EcoBana harness innovation coupled with the green and circular economy to manufacture biodegradable sanitary towels from banana fibers, addressing period poverty in Africa.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

EcoBana is a pioneering social enterprise dedicated to ending period poverty and promoting environmental sustainability. We manufacture biodegradable sanitary pads using banana fibers, a renewable resource that significantly reduces plastic waste and carbon emissions. Our mission is to provide affordable, eco-friendly menstrual hygiene products to women and girls, especially in underserved communities across Africa. By employing innovative production techniques and partnering with local farmers, we create job opportunities and support sustainable agriculture. Our vision is to empower women, enhance menstrual hygiene education, and drive social change through environmentally conscious solutions. EcoBana's holistic approach combines health, economic empowerment, and environmental stewardship.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem we tackle at EcoBana is period poverty, a significant issue affecting women and girls in underserved communities across Africa. Many lack access to affordable and hygienic menstrual products, leading to health risks, absenteeism from school, and social stigma. This issue is compounded by the environmental impact of traditional sanitary pads, which are predominantly made of plastic and contribute to substantial waste and carbon emissions. EcoBana addresses both these critical challenges by providing biodegradable sanitary pads made from banana fibers. Our solution not only offers a sustainable alternative to plastic-based products but also ensures that women and girls can manage their menstruation with dignity and safety. Through this dual approach, we seek to improve health outcomes, promote education, and protect the environment.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

The Major benefits of using or buying our biodegradable sanitary pads are, Environmental Sustainability: EcoBana's sanitary pads are made from biodegradable banana fibers, significantly reducing plastic waste and carbon emissions compared to traditional pads. This promotes a cleaner, healthier planet and aligns with global sustainability goals. Affordability and Accessibility: Our products are priced to be affordable for women and girls in underserved communities. By using locally sourced banana fibers, we reduce production costs and pass these savings onto consumers, ensuring that more individuals can access safe and hygienic menstrual products. Health and Comfort: EcoBana pads are designed with the comfort and health of users in mind. They are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic materials, reducing the risk of infections and skin irritation. Our commitment to quality ensures that users can manage their menstruation with dignity and ease.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Our products are aimed at serving women and girls, particularly those in underserved and economically disadvantaged communities across Africa. Our primary targeted beneficiaries include: Adolescent Girls and Young Women: Ensuring they have access to affordable, hygienic, and eco-friendly menstrual products to manage their periods with dignity and comfort. Rural and Low-Income Women: Providing affordable and sustainable sanitary pads to women in rural areas and low-income households, where access to conventional menstrual hygiene products is often limited or unaffordable. Schools and Educational Institutions: Partnering with schools to supply sanitary pads, thus reducing absenteeism and dropout rates among female students due to lack of menstrual hygiene management. Community Health Programs and NGOs: Collaborating with health programs and non-governmental organizations to distribute sanitary products and educate women and girls about menstrual hygiene.

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-11-22

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

3

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

1

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

Lennox Omondi - Founder & CEO: With a background in Mass Communication, Lennox is a passionate social entrepreneur dedicated to sustainable development and social impact. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in driving EcoBana’s mission to address period poverty and promote environmental sustainability. Keylie Ogola- COO, she has a background in Business Administration with expertise in Operations management Dullah Shiltone- CFO with a Bachelor of commerce and Accounting he brings to the company diverse financial resposibility and discipline.

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

https://www.ecobana.co.ke/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

d) Primary commodities (food, drink, household and personal products)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

2

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

We don't contribute to this specific goal

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Null

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Access to Sanitary Products: We manufacture and distribute biodegradable sanitary pads made from banana fibers, making menstrual hygiene products accessible and affordable for women and girls in underserved communities. This directly addresses menstrual health, reducing the risk of infections and promoting better hygiene practices. Educational Programs: We conduct menstrual health education workshops to raise awareness about proper menstrual hygiene management, breaking down taboos and empowering women and girls with knowledge about their health.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

We are committed to achieving quality education (SDG 4) through our educational initiatives on menstrual health and hygiene. By providing menstrual products and comprehensive education on menstrual hygiene management, we ensure that girls can attend school without interruption, reducing absenteeism. Our programs also include workshops and partnerships with schools to foster an environment where girls feel supported and informed. This holistic approach not only promotes better health but also empowers girls to stay in school, complete their education, and pursue their ambitions confidently.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

We are dedicated to achieving gender equality (SDG 5) by empowering women and girls through our initiatives. By providing affordable, biodegradable sanitary pads, we address period poverty, ensuring that menstruation does not hinder educational or economic opportunities. Our programs also focus on raising awareness and education about menstrual hygiene, breaking taboos, and promoting gender equality. Additionally, we create employment opportunities for women in the production and distribution of our products, fostering economic empowerment. Through these efforts, we strive to create an inclusive society where women and girls can thrive equally.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Null

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Null

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

We are committed to promoting decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) through Ecobana. By manufacturing biodegradable sanitary pads from banana fibers, we create sustainable livelihoods for local communities, particularly women and youth. Our initiative supports fair wages, safe working conditions, and skills development, contributing to economic empowerment and poverty alleviation. Moreover, by expanding the banana fiber value chain and introducing new products, we stimulate economic growth in rural areas, fostering entrepreneurship and enhancing local economies. Through these efforts, we aim to build resilient and inclusive economic systems that benefit all stakeholders involved.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9) are pivotal areas where we at Ecobana contribute significantly. We innovate by utilizing banana fibers to manufacture biodegradable sanitary pads, addressing infrastructure gaps in menstrual hygiene products. Our approach fosters sustainable industrialization by promoting eco-friendly manufacturing practices that reduce environmental impact. By investing in research and development, we continuously improve our production processes, enhancing efficiency and product quality. Ecobana's initiative not only innovates within the hygiene industry but also supports infrastructure development in rural areas where banana farming and processing take place. This contributes to inclusive and sustainable industrialization, ensuring resilient infrastructure and fostering innovation for sustainable development.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

3

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Null

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

2

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Null

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

3

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Null

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Climate action (SDG 13) is central to our mission and practices. We contribute to climate action by reducing carbon emissions and plastic waste through our biodegradable sanitary pads made from banana fibers. Our production processes prioritize sustainable practices, minimizing environmental impact. By promoting natural fiber alternatives, we mitigate the carbon footprint associated with traditional sanitary products. Ecobana advocates for climate resilience in local communities, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and ecosystem conservation. Through these efforts, we align with SDG 13 by actively combating climate change and its adverse effects, fostering a sustainable future for all.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Null

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

3

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Null

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Null

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) are crucial for our sustainability initiatives. We collaborate with local communities, NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations to enhance menstrual health education, promote sustainable development practices, and expand our impact across Africa. By fostering partnerships, We leverage collective expertise and resources to achieve shared goals, ensuring inclusive and sustainable development for all stakeholders involved.

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

6

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

6

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

4

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

Our project idea at EcoBana Limited stands out due to its unique approach and innovative solutions in the Menstrual Hygiene Management industry. Revolutionary Products: We are developing revolutionary menstrual hygiene products that address specific needs and challenges faced by users. Our focus is not just on functionality but also on sustainability and user comfort, setting us apart from traditional offerings. Youth Leadership: Our team is predominantly composed of young leaders who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table. This infusion of youthful energy and creativity enables us to think outside the box and develop solutions that resonate with younger generations. Innovative Distribution Channels: We are exploring innovative distribution channels that ensure our products reach underserved communities effectively. This includes partnerships with local NGOs, leveraging e-commerce platforms, and utilizing community-based distributions.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors in the menstrual hygiene management industry include established brands offering traditional sanitary products and newer entrants focusing on eco-friendly alternatives. What sets EcoBana Limited apart is our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment. Unlike traditional brands, we emphasize revolutionary product design that combines functionality with eco-conscious materials. Our products not only meet hygiene needs but also contribute to environmental sustainability through biodegradable components and minimal packaging waste. In contrast to other eco-friendly alternatives, EcoBana Limited stands out with our strong focus on youth leadership and community engagement. Our team comprises young leaders passionate about driving social impact and redefining norms around menstrual health. We leverage innovative distribution channels and partnerships with NGOs to reach underserved communities effectively

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Yes, EcoBana Limited is actively initiating actions within our community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs. Here are a few examples: Mentorship Programs: We organize mentorship programs where experienced female entrepreneurs in our team provide guidance and support to aspiring women entrepreneurs. This helps them navigate challenges and develop their business ideas. Workshops and Training: We conduct workshops and training sessions focused on entrepreneurship skills, leadership development, and business management specifically tailored for women. These sessions empower women with practical knowledge and confidence to start and grow their businesses. Networking Events: We host networking events that bring together female entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. These events create opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing among women in business.