Online Reporter
Walter Nyamukondiwa in MAGUNJE
AT least 50 adolescent girls from Magunje and Kazangarare in Hurungwe District whose lives were disrupted by teenage pregnancies have been given a second chance through a mentorship and empowerment programme supported by the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD).
The girls, aged between 10 and 19 years, are beneficiaries of the Sister2Sister programme, which is being implemented by the National Aids Council (NAC) with support from OAFLAD. The initiative provides life skills training, counselling, mentorship and economic empowerment opportunities aimed at helping vulnerable adolescents rebuild their lives.
Some of the girls have returned to school, while others are being equipped with skills to support themselves and their children. The programme is targeting one of Hurungwe District’s persistent social challenges — teenage pregnancies and child marriages — with the youngest beneficiary currently aged 14.
During a media tour of the Youth Centre at Magunje Growth Point organised by NAC, several beneficiaries shared how the programme had transformed their lives and restored their confidence.
One of the beneficiaries, identified only as Tarisai to protect her identity, said she had regained hope after receiving counselling and support through the programme.
“What we have learnt through the programme has helped restore my confidence and belief that I can stand on my own and take care of my child,” she said.
“We have learnt that no one should look down upon us because we became pregnant. Society can be harsh towards young mothers, but the programme has helped me withstand that pressure and focus on my future.”
Another beneficiary, who fell pregnant at the age of 14 and is now a mother, has since returned to school as part of efforts to ensure teenage mothers continue with their education.
Mentor Ms Seviria Chasara said the programme was helping young girls make informed decisions and avoid repeating mistakes that could negatively affect their futures.
“We have girls as young as 14 years who unfortunately fell pregnant, complicating their lives at an early age,” she said.
“At the Youth Centre, we provide them with information, guidance and life skills that empower them to care for themselves and their children while helping them make better choices regarding their future.”
She said the programme also educates the girls on sexual and reproductive health, family planning and personal development.
To enhance economic empowerment, the girls have established a dishwashing liquid production project, which provides them with practical business skills and an income-generating opportunity.
Hurungwe District AIDS Coordinator Mr Admire Takawira said the Sister2Sister and Brother2Brother programmes were playing a critical role in reducing new HIV infections among young people through education, mentorship and empowerment.
“We have programmes targeting adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 who are pregnant or already have children,” said Mr Takawira.
“We also have interventions focusing on boys and young men so that they become responsible partners and part of the solution to challenges that affect young people.”
He said the programmes were part of broader national efforts to end HIV as a public health threat by 2030 through responsive and community-driven interventions.
“The goal is to empower young people with knowledge and life skills so that they can make informed decisions about their health, sexuality and future,” he said.
The Sister2Sister model pairs vulnerable girls with mentors who provide guidance, psychosocial support and practical life skills, helping them navigate the challenges associated with teenage pregnancy while reducing their risk of HIV infection and other vulnerabilities.
Peter Tanyanyiwa