Pretoria: The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has issued a call for a unified approach to tackle the issue of teenage pregnancy in South Africa. Approximately 30% of teenagers in the country report having been pregnant at some point, a figure that, while declining in recent years, remains alarmingly high.
According to South African Government News Agency, the department highlighted that teenage pregnancy is a significant public concern, with 95% of cases occurring in developing countries. They stressed the necessity of a collaborative effort, involving multiple stakeholders, to address this complex issue effectively.
The department underscored the importance of interventions in various sectors, including health, education, and social development, to reduce the prevalence of teenage pregnancy. They advocated for enhanced health education, particularly in sexual and reproductive health, emphasizing the benefits of delaying sexual activity, using contraception consistently, and accessing birth control at public health facilities.
Recognizing the multifaceted causes of teenage pregnancy, the department pointed to factors such as cultural traditions, socio-cultural dynamics, and religious influences. Additionally, they noted that low socio-economic status, limited educational opportunities, and early sexual activity contribute to the problem.
The department reported that teenage pregnancy rates are rising annually across all provinces, with higher incidences in rural areas like Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and Eastern Cape compared to urban regions such as Gauteng and Western Cape.
They warned that teenage pregnancy often leads to a cycle of poverty, particularly in families lacking support structures, which can prevent young mothers from continuing their education. The department called for families and communities to collaborate with government authorities to foster environments where open discussions about sex education and the risks of teenage pregnancy can take place.