In recent months, a troubling trend has emerged at our Windhoek state hospitals. Teenage pregnancies are on the rise, igniting a wave of concern among healthcare workers.
This increase has prompted calls for a renewed focus on prevention, education, and support systems.
A growing issue
Data from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Namibia reveals a concerning teenage pregnancy rate of 19% – that is nearly one out five teen girls. The education ministry stated that 147 teenagers got pregnant during the first term of this year in the Zambezi region.
Just a week ago at Katutura State Hospital, 16 babies were born by teenage mothers within five days. Reports from the education ministry showed that the number of pregnancy-related school dropouts increased from 1 560 in 2019 to 2 291 in 2020, and 3 658 in 2021. Several factors contribute to the increase in teenage pregnancies. Experts point to a combination of social, economic and educational factors.
Lack of comprehensive sex education
Many schools are still not providing thorough sex education, leaving teenagers with insufficient knowledge about contraception and sexual health.
Economic disparities
Teenagers from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are more likely to experience unplanned pregnancies due to limited access to healthcare and educational resources, as well as economic dependence, especially in May-December relationships.
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