A total of 536 teen pregnancies were recorded last year.
This was revealed by Zandile Masangane, a representative of the Ministry of Health, during a campaign held at the Prince of Wales Sports Ground aimed at educating young adults on teenage pregnancy and HIV prevention.
The ministry urged adolescents to help reduce the alarming statistics.
“We want all of you to finish school and achieve your goals. These numbers must go down. Focus on your education and say no to sex, or practice safe choices.
We believe that empowering youth with knowledge is one of the best ways to protect their future and ensure a healthier generation,” said Masangane.
Bheki Mamba, also from the Ministry of Health, explained that the event was meant to support young people and address the challenges they face as they grow.
“We are happy to promote programmes on teenage pregnancy and HIV prevention. We thank the Ministry of Education and Training for working with us, and Mbabane Municipal Council for allowing us to use this venue.
Let’s join hands and fight HIV,” he added.
Nationwide Campaign Launched
The Ministry of Health, in partnership with various organisations, has started a national campaign to educate adolescents about HIV prevention and teenage pregnancy. The campaign will be rolled out across all four regions of the country, beginning in the Hhohho region.
More than 300 pupils from different schools around Mbabane — including Ka-Boyce, St. Mark’s, Ka-Schiele, and Mater Dolorosa High — attended the launch event.
The pupils were taught about the dangers of teenage pregnancy and ways to prevent the spread of HIV. The event featured drama, dance, and poetry performances, which helped deliver the message in fun and creative ways.
Prizes and Participation
Officials from the Ministry of Health and its partners held a question-and-answer session, where pupils who answered correctly received gifts such as pencil cases, juice bottles, sanitary pads, and T-shirts.
Makhosazane Nxumalo, Hhohho Regional Career Guidance Officer from the Ministry of Education, thanked the pupils for attending and expressed concern about youth vulnerability.
“New HIV infections are high among young people. We are very concerned because teenage pregnancy leads to school dropouts. It also affects our country’s ability to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as ending poverty, improving education, and promoting gender equality,” she said.
Reaching More Regions
The campaign will continue in the remaining three regions, aiming to reach even more young people. After the presentations and performances, pupils had the opportunity to visit exhibition stalls set up by various partners.
These included organisations such as:
– CANGO (Coordinating Assembly of Non-Governmental Organisations)
– Young Heroes
– Mbabane Municipal Council
– Several departments under the Ministry of Health
At each stall, pupils received information brochures and guidance on various topics, including HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health, counselling services, and how to access support when in need.
They were encouraged to make informed decisions and assured that help is always available.
Eswatini Observer Press Reader
