Story by Yolanda Moyo
AS Bulawayo faces an increase in teenage pregnancy, with drug and substance abuse being one of the major contributing factors, the need to come up with urgent interventions to curb the scourge has been highlighted as key.
Recent statistics reveal a disturbing trend, with the National AIDS Council (NAC) reporting that approximately 2 000 girls in Bulawayo fell pregnant in the last eighteen months.
This alarming figure has underscored the vulnerability of the girl child and the pressing need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes.
“The increase in teenage pregnancies in Bulawayo is deeply concerning. In 2024 alone, we recorded around 2 000 cases of girls falling pregnant. While there are multiple contributing factors, we are increasingly seeing a correlation between drug and substance abuse and this rise. Young girls under the influence are more vulnerable and susceptible to risky behaviors, which unfortunately leads to unintended pregnancies,” NAC Bulawayo Provincial Manager, Mrs Sinatra Nyathi said.
In response to this escalating crisis, the Zimbabwe Liberated Girl Child in Action (ZLGCA) conducted an awareness campaign in Bulawayo this Saturday, specifically targeting drug and substance abuse and its detrimental impact on young girls.
“We, at ZLGCA, felt compelled to act upon witnessing the growing challenges faced by young girls in our communities. The rise in drug and substance abuse is not only destroying their potential but also making them more vulnerable to exploitation and unintended pregnancies. We believe that through awareness and education, we can empower these girls to make informed decisions and seek help when needed. Our goal is to create a safe environment where they can thrive and reach their full potential, free from the clutches of substance abuse,” ZLGCA Zimbabwe’s Executive Director Mrs Anna Mabhena said.
Bulawayo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Judith Ncube emphasised government’s commitment to tackle this issue.
“The statistics on teenage pregnancy are deeply troubling, and the link to drug and substance abuse is a serious concern for the government. We are committed to working with organisations like ZLGCA, and other stakeholders to implement comprehensive strategies that address both substance abuse and teenage pregnancies. This includes strengthening support systems for young girls, providing access to education and reproductive health services, and cracking down on the supply of illicit substances. We need a multi-faceted approach to protect our girl children and ensure a brighter future for them.”
Last year, government launched the Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024-2030) and is also expediting the establishment of a specialised Drug and Substance Abuse Agency to coordinate efforts to combat the scourge and strengthen the legal framework.
