Health officials in Gomoa Ehyiam, located in the Gomoa West District of the Central Region, have reported over 30 cases of teenage pregnancies in the
Health officials in Gomoa Ehyiam, located in the Gomoa West District of the Central Region, have reported over 30 cases of teenage pregnancies in the last year, raising alarms about youth sexual health in the area.
Senior midwife Bernice Amoah stated that there is at least one new case each month, predicting a total of 20 to 30 cases for 2024.
Some pregnancies result from relationships among peers, but health workers indicate that adults, including certain teachers, are also involved in other situations.
Local leaders have pointed out a link between rising pregnancy rates and social events like festivals.
Ayuba Mustapha, the assemblyman for Gomoa Tarkwa, highlighted economic struggles and insufficient job opportunities as major factors contributing to this issue.
During the recent Akwambo Festival in Gomoa Tarkwa, Chief Nana Atta Kwakwa Egyir VII called for government support. He has started an educational fund and other programs to tackle the problem, but emphasised that more long-term solutions are necessary, such as creating higher education and vocational training institutions in the area.
Health professionals from various parts of Gomoa West report similar increases in teenage pregnancies, showing that this challenge affects the entire district. There are increasing calls for focused education efforts, stricter enforcement of laws against sexual exploitation, and better access to reproductive health services.
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