The Gauteng Department of Health launched a plan to help reduce teenage pregnancy. The plan, unveiled by MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, aims to tackle this issue by working with various partners. They launched it on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, in Benoni, Ekurhuleni.
The plan has clear goals and deadlines to address teenage pregnancy, including dealing with its causes and promoting the well-being of teens. It involves getting support from different parts of society like community leaders, youth groups, policymakers, and others.
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko sees this plan as a positive step to address teen health needs. She stressed that teenage pregnancy needs everyone’s attention and that the government is committed to tackling it with partners.
Over time, the Gauteng Department of Health has seen more deliveries and terminations of pregnancies among girls aged 10 to 19. They recorded 24,941 cases in the 2022/23 period, up from 24,445 in the previous year.
The plan uses education and health programs to change behaviours around sex and reproduction, especially in schools. It also considers medical and cultural factors in handling teenage pregnancies ethically.
Parents, guardians, caregivers, and educators will be empowered to talk about child development and sexuality. The Gauteng Department of Health will work with other departments and partners to make a lasting impact on teens’ lives.
