03/06/2026
ASIBAMBANE GIRLS AND YOUNG WOMEN EMPOWERMENT NETWORK (AGYWEN) STATEMENT ON THE REPORTED 518 TEENAGE PREGNANCIES IN BUBI DISTRICT MATEBELELAND NORTH, BULAWAYO by Herald Online ON 28 MAY 2026
AGYWEN is deeply concerned by reports by the herald online on 28 May 2026 indicating that 518 girls fell pregnant in Bubi District. Matebeland North Province Bulawayo. This alarming situation represents not just a statistic, but hundreds of young lives whose education, health, safety, and future opportunities are at risk.
As an organization committed to advancing the rights, empowerment, and protection of girls and young women, AGYWEN strongly condemns all forms of abuse, exploitation, child marriage, and circumstances that contribute to teenage pregnancies. We firmly believe that every girl has the right to education, protection, healthcare, and the opportunity to reach her full potential.
One girl falling pregnant while still a child is one too many. The reported figure of 518 girls is a wake-up call for all of us. It highlights the urgent need for strengthened prevention efforts, comprehensive sexuality education, increased access to youth-friendly health services, stronger child protection systems, and greater community engagement in safeguarding girls.
We call upon the Government of Zimbabwe, traditional leaders, parents, schools, faith-based organizations, development partners, and all stakeholders to work together to address the root causes of teenage pregnancies, including poverty, gender inequality, sexual abuse, child marriage, and limited access to information and services.
Girls belong in classrooms, not in situations that force them to abandon their dreams and aspirations. Every stakeholder has a responsibility to create a safe and supportive environment where girls can thrive, learn, and succeed.
AGYWEN and its partners remains committed to advocating for policies and programmes that protect child rights, girls' rights, promote education, and empower young women across Zimbabwe.
ONE GIRL IS TOO MANY.
World's Children's Prize