Exploring Stakeholder Roles and Strategies for Preventing Teenage Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Analysis in Lepelle-Nkumpi District: South Africa.

INTRODUCTION

Trends and trace of teenage pregnancy continue to rise, and this poses a threat to the future of the education of the youth, as well as their well-being-ultimately the economic status of the country. The aim of this study is to gain insights from non-governmental organisations about the strategies to curb teenage pregnancy in Lepelle-Nkumpi District of Limpopo province.

METHODS

An exploratory qualitative research design was utilised to obtain insiders' perspectives about the strategies to curb teenage pregnancy. Thirty non-governmental organisation workers were purposively selected from the five sub-districts in Capricorn District, Limpopo province. Five focus groups, conducted in English, each lasted one to 2 h. A thematic approach was used-analysis method was used to deductively code, interpret and summarise data into themes.

RESULTS

Five themes emerged such as multi-stakeholder collaborations, economic empowerment, information seeking and sharing sessions, nurturing bonds with children, and extra mural activities.

CONCLUSION

The study highlighted the need for multifaceted approaches and collaborations to prevent teenage pregnancy. This helps policymakers, healthcare providers, educators, stakeholders, and researchers create strategies to reduce teenage pregnancy rates. This supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: good health and well-being, quality education and gender equality.

PUBLIC CONTRIBUTIONS

The study participants were members of non-governmental organisations, who shared their lived experiences. The information gathered was analysed and interpreted to reach conclusions, without involving the participants in the data analysis and interpretation process.