JOHANNESBURG – South African Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has called for urgent action as teenage pregnancies continue to rise, citing a troubling Christmas Day trend. Over 30 teenagers were among the more than 1,600 women who gave birth on December 25, reflecting a year-long pattern affecting young girls across the region.
Motsoaledi said over one million babies were born to young girls this year alone, pointing to systemic failures that continue to jeopardise their education and futures. He urged families, communities, and government bodies to protect girls from exploitation and equip them with tools to make informed choices about their bodies.
The minister stressed that teenage pregnancies are not limited to festive periods, but occur consistently throughout the year, creating long-term social and economic challenges. He highlighted family planning initiatives, sexual education campaigns, and the role of parents and guardians in guiding children on safe practices.
Motsoaledi also singled out men who take advantage of young girls, calling on them to act responsibly and stop contributing to the crisis. He warned that many girls are forced to drop out of school, with their potential futures disrupted by early pregnancies.
The minister urged coordinated action from all sectors of society to address what he described as a serious national problem.
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