Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services, Penioni Ravunawa, has raised critical concerns about the alarming rise in child sexual abuse and teenage pregnancies in Fiji, often perpetrated by family members or trusted community leaders. In his end-of-week statement, Ravunawa shed light on the distressing statistics, revealing that the country recorded 519 teenage pregnancies in 2023, including 15 girls under the age of 15. The number unfortunately increased in 2024, with 858 teenage pregnancies reported, causing a significant impact on the lives of these young girls.
Ravunawa explained that the consequences of teenage pregnancy are grave, as they hinder a girl’s chances of completing her education, limit future employment opportunities, and elevate health risks associated with childbirth. He emphasized that these figures are not merely statistics but represent children forced into motherhood before they are physically and emotionally ready, marking a troubling social justice crisis.
The Assistant Minister highlighted the disturbing reality that for many girls under 15, pregnancy is rarely a choice, but rather a result of abuse, incest, or exploitation by individuals they trust. He called for a collective societal effort to break the silence surrounding these issues and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
Ravunawa urged families, community leaders, and organizations to work collaboratively to address this pressing issue. His call for action aligns with previous discussions emphasizing the need for comprehensive education on sexual and reproductive health. There is a growing consensus that both parents and youth must engage in dialogue about these matters, fostering stronger family ties and enhancing awareness around the risks involved.
Previous reports have shown that in the first half of 2023, Fiji saw 489 teenage pregnancies, with a notable emphasis on the inadequate reproductive health education available to young people. Advocacy groups have long called for a curriculum overhaul to include relevant topics, considering the increasing influence of media and societal changes that risk exposing youth to harmful behaviors.
The push for awareness and action reflects a hopeful outlook; educational initiatives, community engagement, and a commitment to fostering a supportive environment for young people have the potential to create positive change in Fiji. By empowering youth with the necessary knowledge and resources, there’s optimism for a brighter future, one where young individuals can make informed decisions about their health and lives, ultimately reducing the prevalence of teenage pregnancies in the country.