By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
In Sierra Leone, the alarming rise in teenage pregnancies has sparked urgent conversations about the future of our girls. Instead of nurturing their ambitions and allowing them to embrace their childhood, too many are being thrust prematurely into motherhood. This is not just a personal tragedy for each girl affected; it is a national crisis with far-reaching social and economic implications.
According to UNICEF, Sierra Leone has one of the highest teenage pregnancy rates in the world. In rural areas, where poverty and limited access to education are most prevalent, girls as young as 12 are forced to abandon their dreams due to early pregnancies. They are often left to bear the consequences alone, facing stigmatization, health complications, and a lifetime of limited opportunities.
Traditional beliefs in some communities still view girls as commodities rather than as individuals with rights and potential. Child marriages remain a common practice, where girls are exchanged for dowries, effectively ending their childhood. Education is the most effective tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and early motherhood. Yet, many girls in Sierra Leone lack access to quality education. Families struggling to make ends meet often prioritize boys’ schooling over girls’, leaving the latter vulnerable to early pregnancy and dependency.
Many teenagers lack basic knowledge about their bodies and reproduction. Without proper education, they are unable to make informed decisions about their sexual health. Poverty remains one of the greatest drivers of teenage pregnancies. In impoverished families, girls are often forced into relationships with older men who provide financial support, leading to exploitation and unplanned pregnancies.
Early motherhood takes a devastating toll on young girls. Complications during pregnancy and childbirth are among the leading causes of death for teenage mothers in Sierra Leone. Those who survive often drop out of school, limiting their chances of breaking free from the cycle of poverty. For the nation, this means a weaker workforce, higher healthcare costs, and a perpetuation of gender inequality. How can Sierra Leone thrive when half of its population is being denied the chance to reach their full potential?
If we are to protect our girls and secure a brighter future for Sierra Leone, we must act decisively. The government must strictly enforce the Child Rights Act, which sets the minimum age for marriage at 18. Offenders must be held accountable, and communities must be educated on the harms of child marriage. Providing free and compulsory education for all children, with targeted programs to keep girls in school, is essential. Safe spaces, mentorship programs, and financial incentives can help reduce dropout rates among girls. Comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education must be integrated into school curricula. Clinics offering confidential services for teenagers should be established nationwide.
Vocational training and economic empowerment programs can help girls become financially independent, reducing their vulnerability to exploitation. Traditional leaders, parents, and community members must be involved in the fight against teenage pregnancy. Campaigns to challenge harmful norms and promote the value of girls’ education are vital.
Girls must be allowed to grow, learn, and explore their potential not burdened with the responsibilities of motherhood before they are ready. Protecting them is not just a moral obligation; it is an investment in Sierra Leone’s future.
The time to act is now. Let us all play our part in ensuring that every girl in Sierra Leone can proudly say, “I am a girl, not a mother because my dreams matter.”
