The Effects of adolescent pregnancies in Harare province. The Case of Hopely ward 1

Author

Nyakuhwa, Tariro

Title

The Effects of adolescent pregnancies in Harare province. The Case of Hopely ward 1

Abstract

This research was conducted in Hopely Ward 1 in Harare province to identify the effects of adolescent pregnancies in the Ward. The aim of the study was to assess and explore the effects of adolescent pregnancies in Hopely. The main instruments used in data collection were questionnaires and key informant interview guides. Through the use of these research tools, the study was able to reveal the effects of adolescent pregnancies which were poverty, segregation and discrimination, forced marriages and as well as health complications. The research was able to highlight the strategies which are being employed in reducing adolescent pregnancies and the effectiveness of their extent in curbing adolescent pregnancies. Engagement of religious and traditional leaders, youth empowerment, strong policies and laws, and awareness campaigns are the strategies which have been put in place in Hopley to reduce adolescent pregnancies. The study also shows that in the implementation of these strategies there are challenges which are being faced which includes social norms and cultural resistance, lack of interest, lack of sex education and stakeholder disengagement. Therefore, this research was able to make a difference from past studies that were done by comparing the effects, strategies and challenges which are being put in place to reduce adolescent pregnancies in different communities. Thus, based on the findings recommendations were able to be drawn out which includes the government to coordinate with non-governmental agencies in awareness campaigns, to provide fully serviced and equipped recreational facilities and innovation hubs or projects which are closely monitored that promotes youth empowerment through employment creation, engaging religious and traditional leaders ( stakeholders) in all programs that support the youths, accessible and affordable health services and that the community should install or have their own bi-laws which are in support of their vision and mission to end teenage pregnancies.

Date

June 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Adolescent pregnancies,

Forced marriages,

Hopely Ward 1,

Supervisor

Dr. Siziba,