Gender Ministry, UNFPA rally stakeholders for implementation of revised adolescent pregnancy strategy

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has collaborated with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to convene a stakeholder coordination meeting aimed at implementing the Revised Adolescent Pregnancy Strategy (2026–2030). The meeting, organized by the MoGCSP's Department of Gender, sought to unify stakeholders in understanding the revised strategy, allocate responsibilities to implementing entities, and devise practical measures for successful execution.

Attendees comprised government agency representatives, development partners, civil society organizations, academia, traditional and religious leaders, youth groups, and media personnel. The gathered stakeholders concentrated on enhancing collaboration, recognizing potential implementation hurdles, and committing to actions supporting the prevention of adolescent pregnancies and fostering young people's overall welfare and rights.

Chief Programme Officer of the Department of Gender, speaking on behalf of the Ministry, highlighted adolescent pregnancy as a significant national development issue with ramifications for education, healthcare, gender equality, child protection, and economic growth. Approximately 15% of girls aged 15 to 19 have experienced pregnancy, resulting in over 100,000 teenage pregnancies annually.

Consequently, the need for coordinated and evidence-based interventions became evident. The Revised Adolescent Pregnancy Strategy (2026–2030) was crafted by examining lessons from the previous strategy and expanding its scope to prevent adolescent pregnancies, enhance adolescent health, and safeguard young people's rights. The MoGCSP emphasized that realizing the strategy's objectives necessitates robust institutional collaboration, clearly delineated roles, and unwavering dedication from all stakeholders.

The Ministry also conveyed gratitude to UNFPA and other development partners for their technical and financial backing in devising the revised strategy, reiterating the Ministry's commitment to guaranteeing adolescents' access to quality education, good health, and pathways to productive adulthood.