Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

GLONEER MESTRAL CARE is a sanitary pad project that aims at using the local biodegradable Banana fiber obtained from banana pseudo stems after harvesting. The vision of the project is to produce affordable and ecofriendly sanitary accessories.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

GLONEER MESTRAL CARE project is one of the visions of GLONEER YOUTH STRATEGIES WELFARE. GLONEER is a two word GLO- Derived from GLOBAL and -NEER from ENGINEERING. Therefore, GLONEER simply stands for GLOBAL ENGINEERING with an aim of Fostering and engineering all worlds vision. Having been running community socially by initiating social supportive programs, Economically by using community empowerment ideologies. The impact made me have compassion for both the females and environment. We joined a small group of Egerton University students to stand and live planet earth a better place. We began construction of Hospitals, schools and opening of administration in western kenya(KISUMU, SIAYA, BUSIA). AS a manufacturering and industrial engineer, i saw the need for more sanitary pads which are affordable and ones which could conserve the environment. Working with UNIVERSAL TECHNOLOGIES ASSOCIATES tirelessly, committed to make sanitary pads on our first showcase on 24th June 2024 in KISUMU.

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

The main problem that banana aim to solve in the making of sanitary pads is environmental sustainability. Traditional sanitary pads are predominantly made from non-biodegradable materials like plastics, which contribute significantly to environmental pollution. By using banana fibers, which are biodegradable and renewable, the aim is to reduce the environmental impact of sanitary pad production and disposal. Additionally, banana fibers can potentially offer a more comfortable and hypoallergenic alternative to synthetic materials used in conventional pads. Banana fiber is a natural, biodegradable material. Sanitary pads made from banana fiber break down more quickly than conventional plastic-based pads, significantly reducing the environmental burden associated with menstrual product waste. This biodegradability ensures that the products do not contribute to long-term landfill accumulation or ocean pollution. Therefore, GLONEER MENSTRUAL CARE program aims at solving environmental issue

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

Biodegradability: Banana fiber is biodegradable, unlike synthetic materials used in traditional pads. This reduces environmental pollution and waste accumulation. Renewable Resource: Banana plants are fast-growing and renewable, making banana fiber a sustainable material choice. Absorbency: Banana fiber has natural absorbent properties, which can be beneficial for menstrual hygiene products. Local Economic Development: In regions where bananas are grown, using banana fibers can create economic opportunities for farmers and local communities. Reduced Chemical Use: Banana fibers typically require fewer chemicals in processing compared to synthetic fibers, which can be beneficial for both the environment and user health. Economic development : more people will be employed in pads production ares, in farms to collect raw materials. The project will enhance infrastructure and development in regions therefore creating employments and opening opportunities for investors and the community.

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

Women and Girls: These pads provide a sustainable and potentially more comfortable menstrual hygiene product option for women and girls, particularly those in environmentally conscious communities. Environment: By using biodegradable materials like banana fiber, the pads contribute to reducing plastic waste and environmental pollution, benefiting ecosystems and communities affected by waste disposal issues. Farmers and Local Communities: In regions where bananas are cultivated, utilizing banana fiber for sanitary pads can create additional income opportunities for farmers and local communities involved in banana production. Health-Conscious Consumers: Individuals who prioritize using products that are hypoallergenic, free from harmful chemicals, and made from natural materials may also be targeted beneficiaries of banana fiber sanitary pads. Global Health Initiatives: Organizations and initiatives focused on promoting sustainable development goals, including improved access to men

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-04-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

8

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

5

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

1. SHAMMA JUNIOR Egerton university Manufacturing Engineer founder of GLONEER. Owns RAMSHA paint and flooring solutions company Leadership skill sets 2. FELIX MUTIE Egerton University Manufacturing Engineer CEO Wildest Dreams Adventures Founder of Young Traveller's Club Africa Owns i_deal construction experts Works at Universal Technology's Associates 3. PAMELA ROSIE Egerton university Education Graduate Founder of GIFT WITH LOVE FOUNDATION Works at Kenya Models 4.DAISY OSENDO GLONEER YOUTH STRATEGIES WELFARE ASSOCIATION 5. GLORIA MUNINI Egerton University Fashion and design graduate First aid skillsets Member of Youth for Green action kenya 6.SPECIOZA LYNNE Works as the western region coordinator for GLONEER YOUTH STRATEGIES WELFARE ASSOCIATION first aid skillsets 7. FAITH MUENI Egerton University Tourism and Hospitality Works at Wildest Dreams adventures First aid skillsets 8. PHILIP MUNYAO Nairobi university Economic and statistics Works at Rubis kenya First aid skillsets

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

https://web.facebook.com/gloneer

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Manufacturing, production and industrial engineering

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Overall, making sanitary pads from banana fiber not only offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional pads but also contributes significantly to poverty alleviation by creating jobs, empowering communities, and improving access to essential menstrual hygiene products. primarily, The production of banana fiber sanitary pads requires various stages of processing, from harvesting banana pseudo stems to manufacturing the pads themselves. This creates jobs across different skill levels, including agricultural workers, processors, and manufacturers. In regions where banana cultivation is prevalent, this can provide stable income opportunities for local communities, thereby reducing poverty. furthermore, By utilizing locally available resources (banana pseudo stem), the production of banana fiber sanitary pads empowers local communities economically. It reduces dependency on external suppliers and stimulates local economies through increased demand for raw materials.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

By integrating sustainable agriculture principles with economic development initiatives, the production of sanitary pads from banana fiber can play a significant role in achieving food security, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in communities worldwide. also, The demand for banana fiber can incentivize farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. furthermore, Initiatives promoting the use of banana fiber sanitary pads can also include educational programs on nutrition and health. This empowers communities with knowledge about balanced diets, micronutrient supplementation, and the importance of nutritious food choices for overall well-being. Investing in the production of banana fiber sanitary pads supports rural development by creating local jobs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing access to markets. This holistic approach strengthens agricultural communities and their capacity to achieve sustainable development goals.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

By addressing the multifaceted aspects of menstrual health, hygiene, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment, the use of banana fiber in sanitary pads contributes significantly to ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages, fostering inclusive and sustainable development. Banana fibers are naturally hypoallergenic, meaning they are less likely to cause allergic reactions or irritation compared to synthetic materials used in traditional pads. This is beneficial for women with sensitive skin. The production of banana fiber pads often involves local communities in cultivation and processing, providing economic opportunities. Supporting sustainable practices contributes to community well-being by fostering economic stability and local empowerment. Unlike synthetic materials, banana fiber is more breathable. This allows for better air circulation, reducing the likelihood of bacterial growth and associated odors.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

By integrating menstrual health education, gender equality initiatives, and community engagement into the production and distribution of sanitary pads made from banana fiber, stakeholders can contribute significantly to ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all, particularly for girls and young women. Access to affordable and hygienic menstrual hygiene products, such as banana fiber sanitary pads, reduces barriers that prevent girls from attending school during menstruation.This promotes regular school attendance and enhances educational opportunities for girls, contributing to inclusive education. Initiatives to promote the use of banana fiber sanitary pads often include educational programs on menstrual health and hygiene. These programs empower girls with knowledge about reproductive health, menstrual hygiene management, and personal care practices, promoting lifelong learning opportunities related to health.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Overall, making sanitary pads using banana fiber not only addresses practical needs related to menstrual hygiene but also contributes to broader efforts to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. It promotes health, dignity, economic empowerment, and social inclusion, fostering environments where women and girls can thrive and contribute to sustainable development. Improved access to affordable and hygienic menstrual hygiene products, such as banana fiber sanitary pads, helps reduce barriers that prevent girls from attending school during menstruation. This promotes gender equality in education by ensuring that girls can participate fully in educational opportunities without interruption. The production and distribution of banana fiber sanitary pads create economic opportunities, particularly for women involved in agriculture, fiber extraction, and manufacturing.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

By promoting the use of sanitary pads made from banana fiber, stakeholders can contribute to ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation resources. This holistic approach supports environmental sustainability, enhances community health, and fosters responsible consumption and production practices. Unlike the production of conventional sanitary pads, which often involves significant water usage in manufacturing synthetic materials like plastics, making sanitary pads from banana fiber can potentially reduce water consumption. Banana fiber processing generally requires less water compared to synthetic fiber production processes. It reduces reliance on non-biodegradable materials and minimizes the environmental impact associated with the disposal of conventional pads. This contributes to cleaner water sources and healthier ecosystems. Initiatives promoting the use of banana fiber sanitary pads often include educational programs on water maintenance.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Traditional sanitary pads often rely on synthetic materials like plastics and superabsorbent polymers, whose production processes are energy-intensive. In contrast, banana fiber is a natural, biodegradable material that requires less energy to process, thus conserving energy and reducing the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing. By integrating banana fiber sanitary pad production into a circular economy framework, communities can ensure that energy and resources are used more efficiently. This holistic approach supports the development of systems where waste from one process becomes the input for another, reducing overall energy demand and promoting sustainability. Banana fiber is a cost-effective raw material compared to synthetic alternatives. The lower production costs can translate to more affordable products for consumers. Communities engaged in these projects may also be more inclined to adopt other sustainable practices, including the use of renewable energy sources.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

job creation. The collection and processing of banana pseudo stems create jobs for farmers and agricultural workers. Establishing facilities to process banana fiber and produce sanitary pads generates jobs in manufacturing. This includes roles in production, quality control, packaging, and distribution, providing stable employment in local communities. Affordable and accessible sanitary pads enable women and girls to manage their menstruation with dignity, reducing absenteeism in schools and workplaces, and thereby enhancing their educational and economic participation. Local production of banana fiber sanitary pads supports the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are crucial for economic development. These SMEs can thrive on local resources, reducing dependency on imported goods and retaining economic value within the community.

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

Establishing local production facilities for banana fiber sanitary pads helps build resilient infrastructure by creating robust, community-based manufacturing capabilities. This reduces dependency on distant, large-scale industrial operations and enhances local economic resilience. Adding value to agricultural by-products through industrial processes enhances the economic viability of agricultural sectors and promotes a circular economy. Utilizing banana fiber reduces reliance on synthetic, petroleum-based materials, lowering the carbon footprint associated with production and waste management. The industry often involves training programs to educate workers on sustainable practices, new technologies, and business skills, enhancing the human capital and technical skills in the community. The establishment of production facilities and supply chains often necessitates improvements in local infrastructure, such as roads, transportation, and utilities associated with banana production.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Banana fiber production often involves local communities, especially in regions where bananas are cultivated. By engaging local farmers and artisans in the supply chain, it creates opportunities for income generation and economic empowerment. This can help reduce economic disparities between urban and rural areas, as well as within marginalized communities. Manufacturing and distributing banana fiber pads can create jobs at various skill levels, from farming and harvesting banana plants to processing fibers and assembling sanitary pads. Providing employment opportunities can reduce unemployment rates and contribute to poverty alleviation, particularly in regions where jobs are scarce. The production of banana fiber pads may involve training local communities in sustainable agricultural practices, fiber extraction techniques, and manufacturing processes. This knowledge transfer enhances local capabilities and empowers communities to engage in sustainable livelihoods.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Unlike synthetic pads, banana fiber pads decompose naturally after disposal. This reduces the burden on urban waste management systems, minimizes landfill waste, and helps maintain cleaner and healthier environments in urban settlements. Proper waste management contributes to safer and more hygienic living conditions for residents. using sanitary pads made from banana fiber contributes to making cities and human settlements more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable by promoting environmental responsibility, improving access to essential hygiene products, fostering economic opportunities, and supporting climate resilience. These efforts contribute to achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals and enhancing the overall well-being of urban populations. Providing affordable and sustainable menstrual hygiene products like banana fiber pads ensures that women and girls in urban areas have access to essential health supplies.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Sanitary pads made from banana fiber are biodegradable, reducing the amount of non-biodegradable waste that ends up in landfills. This minimizes environmental pollution and the ecological footprint of menstrual hygiene products. Banana fiber is derived from the pseudo stems of banana plants, which are typically considered agricultural waste. By converting this waste into valuable products, the process ensures the efficient use of renewable resources, aligning with circular economy principles. The production process can integrate circular supply chains where materials are reused and recycled. For instance, any by-products from the pad manufacturing process can be repurposed or returned to the agricultural cycle as compost or bioenergy. The need for efficient processing of banana fibers encourages research and development, leading to technological advancements that can be applied to other areas of sustainable production.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

making sanitary pads using banana fiber can significantly contribute to combating climate change and its impacts by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting sustainable agriculture, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, encouraging renewable energy use, supporting circular economy practices, fostering innovation, raising awareness, influencing policy, and strengthening local economies. These combined efforts help mitigate the effects of climate change and support sustainable development. The production of banana fiber sanitary pads involves fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional pads made from synthetic materials. This is because the processing of natural fibers like banana fiber generally requires less energy and emits less CO2. Banana fiber pads are biodegradable, reducing the environmental impact associated with the disposal of synthetic pads that contribute to long-term pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in landfills.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

The use of sanitary pads made from banana fiber conserves and sustainably uses oceans, seas, and marine resources by reducing plastic waste, which is a significant pollutant in marine environments. Traditional sanitary pads often contain plastic components that can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to the growing problem of oceanic plastic pollution. By replacing these with biodegradable banana fiber pads, the amount of plastic waste entering oceans is significantly reduced, thereby protecting marine life and ecosystems. Additionally, the production of banana fiber pads encourages sustainable agricultural practices that minimize runoff and pollution, further safeguarding marine resources and supporting the overall health of aquatic ecosystems. This sustainable approach aligns with broader efforts to maintain the balance and productivity of marine environments, crucial for sustainable development.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

The use of sanitary pads made from banana fiber contributes to the protection, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems by promoting the efficient use of agricultural byproducts, thereby reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. By utilizing banana fibers, which are typically discarded after harvest, this practice helps to sustainably manage forests by reducing the demand for wood-based or synthetic fibers, which often contribute to deforestation and habitat loss. Additionally, the local production of banana fiber pads can combat desertification and halt land degradation by encouraging sustainable farming practices and reducing the pressure on land resources. This approach supports biodiversity conservation by maintaining healthier ecosystems and reducing the need for harmful agricultural expansion, thus preserving the habitats of various species.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Using sanitary pads made from banana fiber promotes peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development by empowering women and girls through improved menstrual health management, reducing stigma, and enabling full participation in education and economic activities. This empowerment fosters gender equality and social inclusion, which are critical for peaceful societies. By creating economic opportunities, particularly for marginalized communities, these pads also help reduce poverty and inequality. Moreover, their production and distribution build trust in institutions through transparent and accountable practices, and advocacy for their use can influence policy to support broader access to essential health products, ensuring justice and inclusivity. Collectively, these actions contribute to the establishment of effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels, reinforcing the foundation for sustainable development.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Fostering Innovation and Knowledge Transfer The development and production of banana fiber sanitary pads represent an innovative approach to sustainable product design. Sharing this innovation globally encourages technology transfer and capacity building. Countries and organizations can learn from each other's successes and challenges, fostering a collaborative environment that accelerates the adoption of sustainable practices worldwide. The success of banana fiber sanitary pads relies on effective collaboration between public entities, private companies, NGOs, and local communities. Such partnerships can pool resources, expertise, and funding to scale up production and distribution. By fostering these collaborations, the initiative can leverage diverse strengths and enhance the effectiveness of sustainable development efforts. Developing and optimizing the supply chain for banana fiber pads involves collaboration across multiple sectors and countries.

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

5

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

5

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

Overall, making sanitary pads using banana fiber represents a holistic approach to addressing environmental, social, and health concerns associated with conventional menstrual hygiene products. It leverages natural resources sustainably, promotes economic opportunities, and offers a biodegradable alternative that aligns with global efforts towards sustainability and eco-friendly practices. primarily, Banana fiber is extracted from agricultural waste, specifically the pseudo stem of banana plants after harvesting. Using this fiber for sanitary pads reduces reliance on synthetic materials like plastics, contributing to environmental sustainability. in addition, In regions where bananas are abundant and culturally significant, using banana fiber for sanitary pads may increase acceptance and accessibility of menstrual hygiene products. This addresses cultural taboos and promotes menstrual health and dignity.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

In the context of making sanitary pads using banana fiber, potential competitors could include other manufacturers of eco-friendly or biodegradable sanitary products, as well as traditional producers of conventional sanitary pads. The key differentiation lies in the sustainable sourcing of banana fiber, the biodegradability of the product, its potential positive impact on local communities, and its appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. By emphasizing these factors, our project and company making sanitary pads from banana fiber makes us carve out a unique niche in the market and distinguish ourselves from competitors. consequently, furthermore, Sanitary pads made from banana fiber are biodegradable, meaning they break down naturally over time, reducing their environmental impact compared to pads made from non-biodegradable materials like plastics.

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

YES. primarily, through the start up project, females will be trained on how to make sanitary pads for both use and commercial purposes. Secondly, through our youth association, we train females on how to use available resources to earn a living, for example, the banana waste remains after fiber extraction is used to make egg trays and crates. furthermore, we train them on how to make ropes, baskets and chairs using banana fiber which are thereafter sold to the local farmer and market. availability of more biogradble products in the western region such as hyacinth has enabled us achieve our goal because its fiber is also utilized by females in their art and crafts activities.