Bhekuzulu stand against teenage pregnancies

FOLLOWING numerous articles regarding teenage pregnancies in Vryheid and how it is rising, the youth of Ezamaciko decided to hold an awareness campaign.

The event was held at King Zwelithini Hall on March 17 by Ezamaciko’s youth and their Adolescent and Youth Friendly committee (which includes Bhekuzulu clinic staff members).

In a report that was released by the District Health Barometer in 2014, it was indicated that 9.3% of all babies delivered in KZN’s health facilities are to teenage mothers.

This figure was higher than both the national average of 7.8% and the national target of 6.8%.

Earlier this year the Department of Health’s MEC Sibongiseni Dlomo pointed out that 40% of the Christmas babies born at Vryheid Hospital last year were born to teenage mothers.

The Bhekuzulu clinic staff members encouraged the youth to not be afraid to visit them and to ask any questions as they are there to help especially the youth in making the right decisions towards their futures.

The Department of Social Development’s Hlengiwe Zulu also pointed out that they too as a department were taking a stand against teenage pregnancies.

She went on to point out that abstinence is best and that R350 was not enough to support a child.

Other activities such as drama plays, singing and games kept the youth entertained as they were learning.

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