Junior Chairperson Councillor Maud Ndlovu of Hwange Local Board (HLB) has expressed deep concern over the escalating rates of adolescent pregnancies in Hwange District, Matabeleland North province, urging all relevant stakeholders to step up efforts to combat the issue and safeguard the well-being of the girl child.
In a recent publication of the HLB newsletter, Junior Cllr Ndlovu highlighted the alarming increase in teenage pregnancies, both in Hwange urban and rural areas.
“The continuous surge in early sexual activity in Hwange is extremely troubling. While in the past, locals attributed it to the presence of haulage truck drivers, the problem persists even with fewer trucks,” she remarked.
She emphasized that such risky sexual behaviors are associated with numerous adverse outcomes, including sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancies, and unsafe abortions.
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Junior Cllr Ndlovu strongly urged young girls to refrain from early sexual engagement due to its detrimental effects on their academic pursuits and future prospects.
“There is a pressing need for community leaders and authorities to take proactive measures in addressing teenage pregnancies, as this phenomenon continues to rob countless girls of their future prospects,” she added.
According to a recent survey by a child rights organization, 95 percent of teenage pregnancies are unintended and often linked to poverty. Limited access to contraceptives for teenagers exacerbates the issue, contributing to the rise in unplanned pregnancies.
The situation has led to a significant number of girls dropping out of school, further fueling the prevalence of child marriages as many perceive marriage as the only viable option after pregnancy.
