Our Projects
Project Description
Given the ever-rising prevalence of teenage pregnancy in Uganda, the project “More Choices, not Teenage Pregnancy", aims to empower and educate young people, providing them with alternatives and opportunities to make informed decisions about their futures. The project will be implemented in Masese Village, Jinja City Uganda.
Project Background:
In Uganda, the prevalence of teenage pregnancies has been rising since 2011, stabilizing at 25%, which positions the country with the highest teenage pregnancy rate in East Africa (2, 3). In 2016, more than a quarter (25%) of adolescents experienced pregnancies between the ages of 15 and 19 years. Within this group, 7% were married before reaching the age of 15 (4). Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic appears to have worsened the situation as it led to a troubling 25.5% increase in pregnancies among girls aged 15 to 19, surpassing the pre-COVID average (4). Another investigation by UNFPA (2021) uncovered that a total of 354,736 teenage pregnancies were recorded in 2020, with the highest occurrences in the Buganda region (31,690) (5).
Education
We encourage both girls and boys to stay in school and pursue higher education as it can delay parenthood. Education opens up more opportunities and provides a sense of independence with the ability to make informed choices.
Life Skills and Empowerment
Teaching girls life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making can boost their self-esteem and confidence. These skills help them resist peer pressure and make healthy choices.
Engaging in income-generating activities
Providing girls with opportunities for economic empowerment, such as job training and employment, can reduce the likelihood of early pregnancy by offering financial independence and stability
Supportive Families and Communities
Families and communities play a vital role in preventing early pregnancy. Creating an open and non-judgmental environment where young people can discuss their concerns and seek guidance is essential
Awareness of Risks
Girls should be aware of the risks associated with early pregnancy, including health risks for both mother and baby, economic challenges, and potential impact on education and career goals.
Gender Equality and Empowerment
Promoting gender equality and empowering girls to make choices about their bodies and futures is crucial. Girls should have a say in decisions related to their reproductive health.
More Choices, not Teenage Pregnancy" is not just a project; it's a commitment to the well-being and prospects of our young people. We firmly believe that by providing them with more choices and opportunities, we can break the cycle of teenage pregnancy and empower them to achieve their dreams.