Cape Town – Alarmingly, Childline South Africa reported that between April and July 2025, over 100 teenage pregnancies were recorded among girls aged 10 to 14.
According to SABC News, the Eastern Cape Department of Health revealed in its provincial report that 117 pregnancies were reported among minors in this age group during the same period.
Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa outlined the department’s plans to intervene, focusing on preventing further cases and ensuring justice for victims of statutory rape.
“We have developed a standard operating procedure: if anyone between the ages of 10 and 14 comes to our facility pregnant, it is the responsibility of the staff who encounter them to report it to our head office so we can take the necessary action,” Capa said.
“In terms of prevention, we have established youth zones in our facilities, staffed by young nurses who can engage with the youth in a way that makes them feel comfortable,” she added.
In an interview with SABC News, Ikusasa Ngelami CEO Zonke Shazi-Hlongwane explained that many parents in South African communities are unaware of the consequences of statutory rape or sexual grooming. She noted that some parents resist education on the subject or refuse to allow their children to receive sexual education, often citing traditional or religious beliefs.
“So, we have got a lot of education to give or to involve our parents in. Most parents don’t agree that their children should start contraceptives.
“They don’t agree that children should learn and know information, so their living in ignorance and they are also in denial,” said Shazi-Hlongwane.
EWN also reported that in the same period, 5000 teenagers gave birth nationwide and police have since opened several cases against adults accused of impregnating minors.
National Childline executive officer Dumisile Cele has stated that this is widely common across the country.
“The numbers are alarming, this is a situation we have been experiencing for the past few years, and obviously we encourage community professionals because these young people go through the hands to professionals to report such matters”, said Cele.
📍 King Cetshwayo DM |
DM @msletsike joined a community engagement with learners, parents, teachers & leaders on the importance of ending teenage pregnancy.
⚠️ Over 150K girls (10–19) gave birth in 2022/23. KZN & EC highest rates.#EndTeenagePregnancy #YouthEmpowerment pic.twitter.com/jn7ReM0h6R
— Dept of Women, Youth & Persons with Disabilities (@DWYPD_ZA) August 31, 2025
📍Wote | 3rd Sept 2025
H.E. Governor Mutula Kilonzo Urges Action on Teen Pregnancies raising alarm over rise of teen pregnancies in Makueni, citing them as a key cause of school dropouts.
He also urged focus on the boy child facing neglect, depression & loneliness.#Makueni pic.twitter.com/jME58DciGL
— Damaris Kavoi (@KavoiDamaris) September 3, 2025
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Compiled by Anda Tolibadi
