Factors Contributing to Teenage Pregnancies in a Rural Community of Zimbabwe

Abstract

The prevalence rate of teenage pregnancies seem to be on the increase especially in rural communities of Zimbabwe. Using Hurungwe District, a rural community in Zimbabwe as a case study, this study sought to find out the factors that are contributing to teenage pregnancies in rural communities of Zimbabwe. To answer the research problem, the researchers adopted the qualitative research design. The target population were women who got married before they reached the age of 18 years, their husbands and local leaders in the community. A sample of 6 women who were married before they reached the age of 18 years and 5 men who are apparently married to some of these women was used to gather data using an in-depth interview instrument. The researchers also identified 3 key informants and a focus group of 12 people (8 men and 4 women) was also used in data collection. Findings revealed that the following are some of the factors contributing to teenage pregnancies in rural communities of Zimbabwe; socioeconomic background, peer influence, lack of sex education, non-use of contraceptives, traditional roles, low self-esteem and low level of education. To this end the researcher recommended the empowerment of teenagers in the rural community and sexual health reproductive education on teenagers in rural communities of Zimbabwe.