Accra: The National Population Council (NPC) states that teenage pregnancy and HIV infections among young people remain significant challenges to Ghana's development.
According to Ghana News Agency, at the Second High Level Coordination Meeting of Partners in Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health Policy Implementation and Advocacy in Accra, Dr. Nii Akwei Addo, the Deputy Chair of NPC, attributed the issues of teenage pregnancy and HIV to poverty, detrimental social and cultural practices, and misinformation. Dr. Akwei also pointed to limited access to adolescent-friendly services and emerging risks associated with digital technology as contributing factors.
Dr. Akwei emphasized the need for stronger multisectoral coordination, increased domestic investment, and meaningful youth participation to combat teenage pregnancy and HIV. He urged for the acceleration of existing programs and policies addressing these challenges.
Dr. Kennedy Brightson, Director of the Family Health Division at the Ghana Health Service, referenced the 2022 Demographic Health Survey Report, highlighting that 7.8 million, or 26 percent, of Ghana's 34 million population are adolescents. Of this group, 15.4 percent have experienced teenage pregnancy. She noted the median age for first sexual intercourse is 17.4 years for girls and 17.2 years for boys, attributing the high rate of teenage pregnancy to early sexual debut.
Regarding HIV, Dr. Brightson indicated that individuals aged 15 to 24 are the most affected. She stressed that parental monitoring and open communication are crucial protective factors and encouraged parents to engage in sexual reproductive health discussions with their children. Additionally, Dr. Brightson urged schools to prioritize health education, guidance, and counseling.
Mrs. Angelina Osei Kodua-Nyanor, Acting Executive Director of NPC, called for stronger partnerships and coordinated efforts to enhance sexual and reproductive health outcomes for adolescents and young people in Ghana. She highlighted the importance of collective ownership and active engagement in achieving national development goals and the Sustainable Development Goals.