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A 28-year-old man has been arrested on a charge of statutory rape after a 13-year-old girl gave birth on Christmas Day at the Seshego Hospital. The man is alleged to have impregnated the teenager.
The thirteen-year-old is one of 31 teenagers who delivered babies at a Limpopo public hospital on Christmas Day.
Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba’s spokesperson, Thilivhali Muavha says the suspect will appear in court soon.
“This situation highlights the critical issues of teenage pregnancy and the abuse of minors, which we cannot ignore.”
The Premier has taken immediate action by dispatching the MEC for Health Ms Dieketseng Mashego, MEC for Social Development Ms Florence Radzilani, and MEC for Transport and Community Safety Ms Violet Mathye to ensure that the young mother receives the necessary support and care during this difficult time.
Teen pregnancy
Meanwhile, Limpopo-based civil society organisation, the SGB Federation has called for drastic measures to be taken to address teenage pregnancy.
The Federation’s Derick Mosoana says it is worrying that as many as 31 teenagers gave birth on Christmas Day in the province.
“Let us be clear. These are not “teen moms” but children whose innocence has been stolen. Their pregnancies are not a result of consent but of gross violations of their rights. As a society, we must act decisively to safeguard the future of our children by addressing the systemic failures that allow such atrocities to persist.”
[WATCH] Limpopo Health Department expresses concern over 31 teenage births on Christmas Day, with the youngest being 13 years old. Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego discusses the worrying trend. pic.twitter.com/m4SSGWEm2p
— SABC News (@SABCNews) December 26, 2024
Battling teen pregnancy through empowerment – Louise Batty
