A multi-sectoral teenage pregnancy intervention plan has been unveiled by the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH), as part of efforts to intensify the fight against teenage pregnancy. 
MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko together with multi-sector partners launched the intervention plan on Tuesday, 30 April 2024 at the Lakes Conference Centre in Benoni, Ekurhuleni. 
The plan outlines a set of objectives with specific timelines that reflect the commitment to address teenage pregnancy in the province, address factors that lead to teenage pregnancy and promote the health and well-being among adolescents. 
It also concentrates efforts on mobilising support and stakeholders from all arms of society including community leaders, youth movements, policy makers, faith-based organisations, business leaders, parents, and school governing bodies to address this challenge in a comprehensive and inclusive manner.
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko said that the multi-sectoral plan to tackle teenage pregnancy is a positive step forward in the commitment to respond to the health needs of the adolescents and youth.
 "As government, we acknowledge that teenage pregnancy is a societal issue that requires a collective effort. We have partnered with key stakeholders to develop a detailed action plan with timelines to actively address this challenge in Gauteng," said the MEC. 
Overtime, the GDoH has seen an increase in deliveries and termination of pregnancies (TOP) in facilities among girls aged 10 to 19 years old. A total of 24 941 deliveries and TOPs were recorded in facilities across the province during the 2022/23 period and the data shows an increase of 496 cases compared to the 24 445 recorded in the 2021/22 financial year. 
Through a transdisciplinary approach and strategic advocacy, the plan seeks to address social behavioural change by providing sexual and reproductive health education and health literacy programmes in communities, especially in schools and higher learning centers to ensure that the targeted adolescents and youth is reached. 
The GDoH has also integrated both medical and socio-cultural considerations to ensure a holistic approach to respond to the challenges of teenage pregnancies in an ethical and culturally sensitive manner. 
In addition, the intervention plan aims to empower parents, guardian and caregivers, as well as educators and other influential stakeholders to engage in discussions about general child development including sexuality and its dire consequences. 
Together with sister departments of Social Development and Education as well as supporting partners, the GDoH will continue to work tirelessly to drive integrated programmes to make a lasting impact on the lives of adolescents and youth in the province.