Uganda’s Ministry of Health (MOH) has launched the Bold Adolescent Health Campaign, a crucial initiative aimed at addressing the high rates of teenage pregnancy in the country.

The campaign seeks to empower young people with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed health decisions, particularly regarding sexual and reproductive health.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Health on its official handle, X, on November 4, 2024, the Bold Adolescent Health Campaign aims to raise awareness and educate adolescents about reproductive health, safe practices, and available healthcare services.

“Uganda has one of the highest teenage pregnancy rates in Sub-Saharan Africa, estimated at 25%. Compared to women in their twenties, teenage girls are twice as likely to die in pregnancy and childbirth; this risk increases five-fold for those below the age of 15 years,’’ part of the statement read.

The statement further noted that teenage mothers often face severe health challenges due to their biological immaturity and limited access to quality maternal care.

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While speaking at the launch that occurred in Namayingo district on Monday, November 4, 2024, the Asst. Commissioner for Adolescent & School Health, Dr. Rachel Beyagira, however, noted that the campaigns began in May 2024 and progressed to August, with the goal of social and behavioral change.

“And even in this communal Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) campaign, the intent remains sound to involve adolescents in taking center stage in influencing their communities and leaders to create a more enabling environment for their fellow adolescent girls, especially those who are pregnant or mothers,” Dr. Beyagira said.

Reports by the Ministry of Health reveal that 25% of Ugandan teenagers become pregnant by the age of 19, and close to half are married before their 18th birthday.

According to the World Health Organization, one in every four girls aged 15–19 years is already a mother or pregnant with her first child. Uganda’s teenage pregnancy rates are alarmingly high and increasing to a national average of 25% in 2016, down from 24.5% in 2011.