In a powerful call to action, Minister of Health Jane Ruth Aceng has urged communities in the Lango sub-region to address the alarming rise in teenage pregnancies. Speaking at a community health forum in Lira, Minister Aceng highlighted the critical need for concerted efforts to tackle this pressing issue that threatens the future of young girls and the socio-economic development of the region.

The Lango sub-region has witnessed a significant increase in teenage pregnancies over the past year, exacerbated by the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. School closures, limited access to reproductive health services, and socio-economic hardships have created a perfect storm, putting adolescent girls at greater risk.

Minister Aceng emphasized the importance of a multi-faceted approach to curb this trend. “We cannot afford to stand by while our young girls are deprived of their childhood and their future prospects. It is imperative that we implement comprehensive sexual education, strengthen community support systems, and ensure access to reproductive health services for all,” she stated.

The Minister’s call comes at a time when various stakeholders, including parents, educators, health professionals, and community leaders, are grappling with the consequences of teenage pregnancies. The forum brought together representatives from these groups to discuss actionable strategies to protect and empower young girls.

One of the key measures proposed is the integration of comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education into school curricula. This aims to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Minister Aceng also stressed the need for community outreach programs to raise awareness and provide support to those in need.

“Education is the most powerful tool we have to combat teenage pregnancies. By empowering our youth with the right information and resources, we can break the cycle of poverty and dependency that often accompanies early pregnancies,” Minister Aceng said.

In addition to educational initiatives, the forum called for the strengthening of health services, particularly in rural areas. Ensuring that adolescents have access to confidential and youth-friendly health services is crucial in preventing unintended pregnancies and promoting overall well-being.

Community leaders at the forum echoed the Minister’s sentiments and pledged their support for these initiatives. They acknowledged the role of cultural and social norms in perpetuating teenage pregnancies and expressed a commitment to fostering an environment that prioritizes the health and education of young girls.

The rising rate of teenage pregnancies in Lango is not just a health issue; it is a socio-economic challenge that requires a collective response. Minister Aceng’s call to action is a crucial step in mobilizing resources and galvanizing efforts to safeguard the future of the region’s young girls.

As the forum concluded, there was a renewed sense of urgency and commitment among participants to work together towards a common goal – a future where every girl in Lango has the opportunity to reach her full potential.