Central Region witnesses significant decline in teenage pregnancies over the decade

The Central Region of Ghana has marked a notable achievement with a decade-long decline in teenage pregnancies, dropping from 13,355 cases in 2014 to 8,539 cases in 2023, representing a remarkable 64 percent decrease. This milestone has been attributed to the concerted efforts of UNFPA Sub-Implementing Partners focusing on adolescent reproductive rights and combating sexual and gender-based violence.

Key stakeholders contributing to this achievement include the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Education Service, Department of Gender, National Youth Authority, Social Welfare, Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), as well as International Needs Ghana, the Plan Parenthood Association of Ghana (PPAG), traditional and religious authorities, and various Non-Governmental Organizations.

Mr. Alan Paintsil, the Focal Person for the Sub-implementing Partners, emphasized the importance of continued efforts to improve the future prospects of adolescent girls and boys in the region. Speaking at a subcommittee meeting in Cape Coast, Paintsil referenced the 2022 Demographic and Health Survey report, which highlighted the Central Region's previous ranking of 12th among other regions in terms of teenage pregnancy rates.

Despite the progress made, challenges persist, as the region continues to grapple with high incidents of sexual and gender-based violence, exceeding the national average. Paintsil urged stakeholders to lead the charge in addressing these issues and emphasized the need for strict enforcement of the law to deter perpetrators.

The meeting also addressed concerning attitudes towards gender-based violence, with the report indicating that 19 percent of women believed a husband is justified in hitting or beating his wife, citing reasons such as neglecting children or refusing sexual intercourse. Paintsil urged individuals to end such behaviour and advocated for intensified public education efforts, particularly in seven districts with prevalent issues.

In addition to addressing teenage pregnancies and gender-based violence, the Sub-Implementing Committee is committed to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS through the ‘First 90 Campaign,' aligned with the global agenda set by UNAIDS. This campaign aims to combat HIV/AIDS and other communicable diseases, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 3, which prioritizes promoting health and well-being for all.

As stakeholders reaffirm their commitment to sustaining these gains, collective action and continued advocacy are essential to safeguarding the health and rights of adolescents and combating prevalent social challenges in the region.