Department of Health concerned about high teen pregnancies
The department urges family members and community structures to work together to decrease the high rate.
Over 100 teenagers from as young as 13 are among mothers who gave birth on Christmas and New Year across the country.
According to the Department of Health records, 1 803 babies were delivered at public health facilities on New Year`s Day, which is 22 per cent higher than babies on Christmas Day.
The department said it is concerned about the high rate of teenage pregnancies.
Spokesperson Foster Mohale said the government, families and other community structures need to work together to reduce school dropout numbers.
“This makes them vulnerable to poverty, while teen pregnancy and early motherhood contribute to the interruption of formal education or dropping out of school by adolescent girls.
“Some of them struggle to strike a balance between parenting and education due to lack of supporting family structures,” said Mohale.
Also Read: How to cope with an unexpected pregnancy
Also Read: SAVF focuses on teen pregnancy
