Teenage Pregnancy Surges in Adaklu-Waya

The Adaklu District Director of Health (DDH), Mr. Matthew Ayamba, has expressed concern over the sudden surge of teenage pregnancy cases recorded in the area. He noted that this trend not only threatens the health of young girls but also endangers their future.

According to Mr. Ayamba, 83 girls between the ages of 14 and 17 became pregnant from January to September 2025, while four girls aged 10 to 14 were also recorded as pregnant within the same period. The District Director shared this information during an educational programme on reproductive health and the general wellbeing of youth in Adaklu-Waya.

He observed that substance abuse, teenage pregnancy, and early marriages are major factors affecting youth development. Reports from local health facilities indicate that substance abuse cases are prevalent among the youth. Mr. Ayamba urged parents to take greater interest in the activities of their wards and protect them from practices that could harm their health and future. The District Health Directorate is closely monitoring developments and intensifying educational outreach across the district.

Mr. Ayamba also highlighted that anaemia has become prevalent among teenage couples due to inadequate nutrition. Additionally, he pointed out that the youth are suffering from various forms of cancer, linked to smoking, substance abuse, and alcohol consumption. “These promising young men will often only visit health facilities once they fall seriously ill, by which time they may already be experiencing mental disorders and cancer,” he stressed.

The DDH noted that regular education on adolescent reproductive health is ongoing, including the promotion of contraceptives like condoms to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.

Supporting the initiative, the Adaklu District Police Commander, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ms. Esther Buakumah, emphasized the need for the youth to be law-abiding citizens. She warned that drug use is a crime, and offenders would face legal consequences if caught.

By Samuel Agbewode, Adaklu-Waya

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