Teenage pregnancy in Kwatsaduza

Teenager Kamogelo Mohono (17) says teenage pregnancy affects her on a daily basis in her community and at school and that, last year, she found herself in a classroom that felt like a maternity ward.

Mohono explains that more must be done to help teenagers not to get pregnant.

Parent and nurse Gugu Zwane says risky behaviour is the main cause of the increase in teenage pregnancy in our townships.

She adds that, as a parent you have the responsibility to mentor your child and communicate about sex, dating, safe sex, abstinence and contraceptives.

She says although there comes a time when a parent must no longer manage their child, but rather consult the child, the reality is that teenagers are vulnerable within their social circles.

According to Zwane, in townships some parents are still afraid to communicate about sexual behaviour with their children; there are still parents who rely on the school and society to give their children sexual education.

“I urge parents and young people to try to help each other by communicating with each other,” she adds.

“Communication is key in preventing teenage girls from falling pregnant.”

Zwane explains that the community must also start taking responsibility, by serving as parents to child-headed families, to prevent teenage pregnancy.

In conclusion, she reminds the community that it takes a whole village to raise a child.