For years, Liliane Ingabire Ntwali endured what many women quietly face; an irritation caused by sanitary pads. What should have been a routine monthly experience often resulted in painful rashes and even visits to the doctor. She was told she had sensitive skin, but knowing that offered little relief. What she truly needed was a product that worked for her body. At one point, she discovered a foreign brand that finally provided comfort and relief. For the first time, she felt secure and irritation-free during her period. The problem, however, was accessibility, the brand was not readily available in Rwanda. Years later, after giving birth, the discomfort returned. ALSO READ: $30m factory to boost sanitary pad production in Muhanga She tried three different brands, but none delivered the comfort she needed. Eventually, she found another option from the United Arab Emirates that suited her skin — but it came at a cost nearly four times higher than regular pads on the local market. That experience prompted a question she could no longer ignore: why not create her own solution? “I wasn’t trying to start a business at first,” she explains. “I was trying to solve a personal problem. I needed something soft, breathable, and safe for sensitive skin.” What began as a personal search for comfort evolved into detailed research. Ingabire reached out to manufacturers, specifying exactly what she wanted: soft spunbond material, strong absorption, breathable backing, and overall comfort designed specifically for sensitive skin. Samples were produced and rigorously tested. She refined every detail until she was satisfied. The process ultimately led to the birth of Ling Pads — a brand built not on theory, but on her lived experience. ALSO READ: Trade ministry explains rise in sanitary pad prices Today, Ling Pads produces approximately 100,000 packs every six months. Although still a young brand, its operational model allows it to scale as demand grows. Its primary market includes women seeking quality menstrual products at competitive prices, particularly students and young professionals willing to invest in comfort and hygiene. “When you compare our pricing to what’s available locally, we are very competitive,” Ingabire said. “There may be cheaper options, but we focus on delivering better protection and comfort without compromising quality.” Ling Pads are designed with a soft surface, a high-absorbency core, breathable leak-proof backing, and a distinctive refreshing mint layer that many users highlight. Available in Mini, Regular, and Maxi sizes, the brand addresses varying flow needs — an aspect customers say they appreciate. Women share their experience For Ornella Uwadata Gahima, the difference was immediate. She describes the pads as comfortable and reliable, adding that she has experienced no leaks since switching. The mint feature, she says, keeps her feeling fresh, especially during long days or workouts — a detail that distinguishes the brand. “Ling Pads have honestly been a game-changer for me. They’re very comfortable, and I haven’t had any issues with leaks, which is important. I also like the mint touch in the pant liners — it keeps me feeling fresh, especially on long days or during workouts. I’ve already recommended them to friends,” she said. ALSO READ: Breaking the silence: Menstrual health and hygiene as a catalyst for gender equality Ella Divine Umugwaneza shared a similar view, noting that the mint layer makes Ling Pads noticeably different from other brands she has used. For her, the freshness and comfort stand out. “Since I started using Ling Pads, I’ve noticed a clear difference from other brands. The mint inside makes them feel fresh and comfortable. I’ve honestly never used a pad like this before. For me, it’s 10 out of 10,” she said. Beyond product features and comfort, Ingabire positions Ling Pads within a broader conversation about women’s health and participation in society. “Menstrual products are not optional. Women need them every month. When women have access to reliable products, they can participate fully in school, work, and daily life. We’re not just selling pads — we’re supporting confidence and opportunity,” she noted. The menstrual care industry continues to expand as awareness around hygiene, safety, and product quality grows. For Ingabire, the venture is both practical and purposeful. It has strengthened her entrepreneurial skills, expanded her leadership capacity, and reinforced her belief that women deserve better choices. Ling Pads did not originate in a boardroom. It began with discomfort, frustration, and a refusal to settle. What started as one woman’s search for relief has evolved into a growing brand rooted in understanding — a reminder that empowerment sometimes begins not with grand declarations, but with solving everyday problems many quietly endure.
