The Iseguri Initiative, a non-governmental organisation in the Kadjebi District of the Oti Region, is intensifying efforts to combat teenage pregnancy and early forced child marriage.

Engaging 13 smallholder women farmers’ groups from selected communities, the Initiative emphasised the importance of educating girls and ensuring they complete their education.

Rooted in agricultural advocacy, the Initiative focuses on climate-smart practices, conservation agriculture, and ending child labour in cocoa-growing areas.

As part of its mission, it has launched a program dedicated to educating students, particularly girls, about the consequences of teenage pregnancy and early marriages.

In a visit to Yadzo, a cocoa-growing community in Kadjebi, the Initiative provided educational sessions for upper primary and junior high school students, highlighting the causes and consequences of these social challenges.

Empowering Communities Through Education

Madam Jemima Etse, the focal person for the Initiative, underscored the role of parents in addressing these challenges, emphasizing that educating girls empowers them to avoid such societal pitfalls.

She called on parents to foster open communication and prioritize sexual education at home.

Programs Coordinator Mr. Raymond Buami echoed this sentiment, urging parents to monitor their children’s use of technology and guide them toward educational resources.

He highlighted the harmful influence of social media and encouraged young girls to report inappropriate advances from boys to trusted adults.

Mr. Buami also announced plans to establish girls’ clubs to promote reading, learning, and personal hygiene education.

Health Risks and Support for Teenage Mothers

Madam Melody Benuyena, a member of the Initiative and staff at St. Mary Theresa Catholic Hospital, addressed the medical risks of teenage pregnancies, including low birth weight, premature births, and maternal mortality.

She stressed the need for reproductive and sexual health education, urging parents and community leaders to play active roles in supporting young people.

Madam Benuyena also highlighted the importance of providing essentials such as food, menstrual hygiene kits, and school uniforms to keep girls in school.

Mr. Kofi Nardi, also from St. Mary Theresa Catholic Hospital, discussed the emotional, physical, and financial challenges teenage mothers face.

He highlighted issues such as interrupted education, financial constraints, and societal stigma, which often lead to depression or even suicide.

He urged families to provide unwavering support to help young mothers achieve their dreams and encouraged girls in crisis to seek help through platforms like the Iseguri Girls Club in Yadzo.

Community Gratitude

The Headmaster of Yadzo D/A Basic School, Mr. Divine Osum, expressed appreciation for the Initiative’s efforts to combat teenage pregnancy in the community. He encouraged students to prioritize education and abstain from risky behaviours.

Parents present at the event also lauded the Initiative for supporting their families and addressing community challenges.

The Iseguri Initiative remains committed to fostering a safer, more empowering environment for young girls, ensuring they can pursue education and achieve their potential.