Strengthening Collective Action to Protect Adolescent Girls and Promote Their Futures
The Forum for African Women Educationalists Zimbabwe (FAWEZI) participated in the official launch of the Multi-Sectoral Framework on the Prevention and Management of Adolescent Pregnancies, a national initiative developed by the Government of Zimbabwe through the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, with technical and financial support from government ministries, departments and agencies, as well as United Nations partners in Zimbabwe.
The launch marked a significant milestone in strengthening coordinated national efforts to prevent adolescent pregnancies and ensure that adolescents, particularly girls, have access to the support, information, and opportunities required to make informed decisions and achieve their aspirations.
The event was officiated by the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Hon. E. Moyo, and brought together key stakeholders including the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Hon. T. Machakaire; United Nations Resident Coordinator in Zimbabwe, Ms R. Kalapurakal; representatives from government ministries, traditional leaders, development partners, school heads, and learners.
The participation of diverse stakeholders reflected a shared national commitment towards addressing adolescent pregnancies through a coordinated, inclusive, and multi-sectoral approach.
A Comprehensive Roadmap for Prevention and Support
Developed from findings of the National Assessment on Adolescent Pregnancies, the framework provides a roadmap for strengthening prevention, response, and support mechanisms for adolescents across Zimbabwe.
Through its ten strategic pillars, the framework seeks to address the multiple factors contributing to adolescent pregnancies by improving access to sexual and reproductive health information and services, strengthening protective environments, promoting economic empowerment, enhancing support systems, and creating opportunities for adolescents to realize their full potential.
The framework recognizes that addressing adolescent pregnancies requires collaboration across education, health, social protection, justice, community leadership, and other sectors to ensure that adolescents are supported throughout their development journey.
Advancing Girls’ Education and Empowerment
FAWEZI welcomes the launch of the framework as an important step towards creating stronger systems that protect girls’ rights, promote gender equality, and support continued access to education.
Through its programmes and partnerships, FAWEZI continues to advocate for interventions that keep girls in school, address barriers affecting their educational journeys, and create safe and supportive learning environments where adolescents can thrive.
The organization’s work aligns with national efforts to ensure that girls and young women have access to the education, skills, information, and opportunities needed to make informed choices and participate meaningfully in society.
As Zimbabwe advances the implementation of the Multi-Sectoral Framework on the Prevention and Management of Adolescent Pregnancies, FAWEZI remains committed to working alongside government, communities, development partners, and other stakeholders to strengthen systems that empower adolescents and safeguard their futures.
Together, collective action can help build a future where every girl is supported to remain in school, pursue her dreams, and reach her full potential free from barriers.
Menard Ziko