12-year-old girl gives birth amidst concerns of statutory rape
A 12-year-old girl from South Africa welcomed a baby on January 1st, marking the start of the year with a bittersweet event.
Reports indicate that the young mother gave birth alongside 39 others at a healthcare facility in the Eastern Cape, under the supervision of MEC of Health, Ntandokazi Capa.
The case has raised serious concerns, as the father of the child is reportedly a 17-year-old boy.
Health officials express their sorrow over the situation, emphasising that it embodies the harsh reality of statutory rape.
They plan to involve relevant departments to identify the father and address the underlying issues.
“This situation is heartbreaking, and we must take action,” said MEC Capa. “It’s crucial for parents to educate their children about the importance of safe practices and the available contraceptive options.”
The distressing trend continues, as another case has emerged involving a 16-year-old girl who became pregnant after being involved with a 22-year-old man in KwaZulu-Natal.
Speaking on these, KZN health MEC Nomagugu Simelane said; “While the ages of the fathers of these babies are not known, we do know that one of the 17-year-olds, who gave birth at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital, was impregnated by a 26-year-old man,”
She added that investigation has began to make sure someone is held responsible.
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