Addressing Teenage Pregnancy in Waru

Shades of Us at the Global Girl Leadership Project (GGP) Conference at Waru, Abuja.

Global Girl Leadership Project Conference

By Cynthia Umeh

Shades of Us was at the Global Girl Leadership Project (GGP) Conference at Waru, Abuja. This event, organized by Strong Enough Girl Empowerment Initiative (SEGEI) in partnership with the Global Girl Project, aimed to address the pressing issue of teenage pregnancy and its ripple effects on young girls and their communities. 

The conference opened with a warm welcome from the Global Girl Leadership Initiative Facilitator. A standout moment was the presentation by the GGP participants, who shared their personal experiences and the transformative journey they have embarked upon. Through their stories, the audience witnessed the remarkable growth these girls have achieved, underscoring the importance of investing in girl-led initiatives.

Creativity took center stage during a drama presentation by the participants portraying the struggles and societal challenges surrounding teenage pregnancy in their community. This performance educated and deeply resonated with the audience.

A round table session brought dynamic discussions on key issues such as teenage pregnancy, the importance of girl education, and the role of community support. The participants showcased their leadership and advocacy skills, sparking meaningful conversations and fresh perspectives.

The conference also featured a health talk by the Matron from Waru Primary Healthcare Center, who highlighted the health implications of teenage pregnancy and emphasized the need for prevention and accessible healthcare services. The Proprietress of Chukabell Group of Schools encouraged open conversations on comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), urging communities to create safe spaces for young people to learn and grow.

The role of men and boys in preventing teenage pregnancy was spotlighted by the Waru Community Youth Leader. His message was clear: fostering respectful relationships, mentoring programs, and challenging harmful gender norms are essential steps in addressing this issue.

The event concluded with a call to action, urging attendees to support educational and policy-driven initiatives to combat teenage pregnancy. Queen Ugwoeru’s closing remarks encapsulated the conference’s spirit, emphasizing collaboration and sustained commitment to change.

Shades of Us is immensely proud to have contributed to this event. Our mission to amplify underrepresented voices aligns perfectly with the goals of the GGP Conference. The girls’ stories, creativity, and leadership reaffirm the transformative power of storytelling in driving social impact and fostering inclusive communities.

Key Recommendations:

1. Promote comprehensive sexuality education in schools and communities to empower young people with knowledge.

2. Engage men and boys as allies in addressing teenage pregnancy and fostering gender equality.

3. Provide accessible healthcare services for young girls, including counseling and reproductive health support.

4. Encourage girl-led initiatives that amplify young voices and build their leadership capacities.

5. Advocate for policy reforms that prioritize the education and well-being of girls in rural areas.

6. Create platforms for open dialogue within communities to address stigma and cultural barriers.

7. Invest in mentorship programs that connect girls with role models and support systems.

With these, we can create a brighter future for every girl, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to thrive.