By Sellah Singini

Lilongwe, September 17, Mana: First Lady Madam Monica Chakwera has said traditional leaders are crucial in educating and guiding young people on matters of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and that their influence can prevent early pregnancies and child marriages, thus securing a better future for our youth.

Chakwera said this at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe on Tuesday during a national engagement meeting with senior chiefs on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).

She said adolescents and young girls hold the potential to contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of Malawi, especially as the country is in the process of implementing the Malawi 2063 hence, they need protection and access to Sexual and Reproductive Health services.

“In Malawi, the challenge of early pregnancies among adolescents is deeply concerning as about 29% of girls aged 15-19 have either given birth or are pregnant, which significantly contributes to high rates of maternal and neonatal complications.

“I am aware that teenage pregnancies account for 25% of all births in the country. Even more alarming is the fact that teenage pregnancies are responsible for 18% of maternal mortality. These young mothers are at most vulnerable, and the health of both mothers and their children is at risk,” she said.

The First Lady further said Malawi faces another major health crisis of cervical cancer, with a prevalence rate of 51.5% and a death rate of 67.9%.

She said, that while efforts to screen and detect this deadly disease have led to 46.2% screening coverage, the country remains behind regarding where is it supposed to be, therefore calling for a multi-sectoral approach to protect the health and future of women and girls.

In his remarks, Minister of Health, Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda said her ministry organized the national engagement meeting with the First Lady and Senior Chiefs intending to reduce child marriages and teenage pregnancies.

She noted that chiefs play a pivotal role in empowering our young people to make informed decisions that shape a brighter future.

She also said, that as custodians of culture, chiefs have to advocate for early antenatal visits, hospital deliveries, and access to Sexual Reproductive Health services and can also champion bringing these services closer to the people.

During the meeting, the First Lady was given a role to be a champion in SRHR focusing on reducing teenage pregnancies, child marriages and promoting the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and she will work together with the chiefs.