Mashonaland Central Province reports the nation's highest adolescent pregnancy rate at 37 percent, but officials warn the crisis threatens youth development across multiple regions. Fadzai Makosa from Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council revealed on a recent date that Mashonaland West follows at 31 percent, and Bulawayo records 13 percent. The national rate stands at 23 percent among a youth population exceeding 32 percent of total residents.
Makosa urged media representatives to promote awareness about premature sexual activity and support comprehensive sexuality education programs. Anne Mugwagwa from the Zimbabwe African Union Youth described the situation as stealing futures from girls who should focus on childhood rather than motherhood. She demanded accessible reproductive health services in every district and called on fathers, teachers, religious leaders, and traditional authorities to protect young women from early pregnancies.
Makosa urged media representatives to promote awareness about premature sexual activity and support comprehensive sexuality education programs. Anne Mugwagwa from the Zimbabwe African Union Youth described the situation as stealing futures from girls who should focus on childhood rather than motherhood. She demanded accessible reproductive health services in every district and called on fathers, teachers, religious leaders, and traditional authorities to protect young women from early pregnancies.
