By Thapelo Molefe
The African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) has raised concerns over the rising rates of teenage pregnancy, urging urgent and collective action to address the crisis.
This follows the arrest of a 28-year-old man accused of impregnating a 13-year-old girl who gave birth on Christmas Day at Seshego Hospital.
In Limpopo alone, 31 teenagers reportedly gave birth on the same day.
ANCWL Secretary-General Nokuthula Nqaba described teenage pregnancy as a “multifaceted issue” rooted in poverty, inadequate education, and limited sexual health awareness.
She warned that the rising numbers jeopardize the health and well-being of young girls while undermining the stability of families and communities.
“This alarming trend not only jeopardizes the health and future prospects of our young girls but also underscores the critical issues surrounding broken homes, inadequate parenting structures, and the overall social fabric of our society,” Nqaba said in a statement on Friday.
Reflecting on the role of families, Nqaba called for stronger parental involvement.
“Parents are often the first line of support for young people,” Nqaba noted, urging open conversations about sexual health and relationships to help teenagers make informed choices.
Nqaba also stressed the importance of education, advocating for comprehensive sexual education programs in schools.
“It is vital that we provide our youth with the information they need to make informed decisions, as well as promote healthy relationships,” Nqaba said.
To address the crisis, the women’s league called for coordinated action from various government departments to combat teenage pregnancy effectively.
The league urged the Department of Basic Education to ensure initiatives like the Bela Act protect and support pregnant students, helping them avoid long-term socio-economic disadvantages.
It also called for the Department of Social Development to expand services for teenage mothers, including counseling, parenting classes, and economic empowerment programs.
“The Department of Health must guarantee comprehensive access to reproductive health services, such as contraceptives, prenatal care, and confidential advice,” said Nqaba.
“Additionally, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development was called on to strengthen legal measures against statutory rape and exploitation of minors, ensuring perpetrators are held accountable and law enforcement is equipped to handle these sensitive cases effectively.”
The ANCWL also urged collaboration across all sectors, including government, educational institutions, civil society, and the private sector, to empower young women to make informed choices.
“We must work together to create an environment where young women are empowered to make decisions that enhance their dignity, health, and future prospects,” Nqaba said.
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