No More Silence 1 – Teenage Pregnancies

Uganda has the highest rate of teenage pregnancies in East Africa at 25%, with over 1,000 girls under 19 falling pregnant each day (UNICEF Uganda; Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, 2022). TRAC FM and Amref Health Africa’s interactive radio campaign, No More Silence, engaged communities on the causes and prevention of teenage pregnancies through both community-based and government approaches.

POLL 4

If the government was to extend small business loans, who do you think should be given priority?

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Radio Stations

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BACKGROUND

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POLL QUESTION.

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Campaign Background

In Uganda, government policies often focus on child marriage and sexual violence as the driving cause of teenage pregnancy. However, the No More Silence campaign revealed that 66% of teenage pregnancies result from accidental pregnancies rather than forced marriage or assault. The campaign aimed to shift the conversation towards comprehensive sexual education, contraceptive access, and increased accountability for teenage fathers.

Partners and Scope

This campaign was implemented by TRAC FM and Amref Health Africa under the Heroes for Gender Transformative Action program, with support from the Embassy of the Netherlands. It was broadcasted on Baba FM, Eastern Voice, and Radio Ssese, reaching diverse audiences in Central and Eastern Uganda. Poll questions explored key issues such as the causes of teenage pregnancies, young people’s sexual behavior, the lack of accountability for fathers, and barriers to condom use.

Objective and Impact

The campaign uncovered critical insights, including that 58% of respondents cited economic necessity as the main driver of teenage sexual activity, and 29% of participants reported that they avoided condom use due to partner resistance. Additionally, the findings highlighted the absence of accountability mechanisms for teenage fathers, with many families opting for private settlements instead of legal action. The campaign’s evidence-based approach contributed to national discussions on comprehensive sexuality education, improved contraceptive access, and policy reforms to better support young mothers and prevent early pregnancies.

Read the Final Report: No More Silence – Teenage pregnancies

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