Stage 1: Problem Identification
Problem Identification:
Early teenage pregnancy remains a major social and health concern in Zimbabwe,
especially in rural and low-income communities. Many girls drop out of school, face
health risks during childbirth, and struggle with financial and emotional challenges.
The issue also places pressure on families and limits the country’s overall
development due to a rise in dependency and poverty cycles.
Statement of Intent:
This project aims to investigate the causes and effects of early teenage pregnancy in
Zimbabwe and explore possible community-based solutions to reduce its prevalence
and impact on young girls and society.
Design Specifications:
- Interviews with affected girls and posters.
Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas
Related Idea 1: School-Based Sexual Health Education
Explanation:
Providing accurate information on sexual health and pregnancy prevention through
schools can reduce teenage pregnancies.
- Author:Mavedzenge et al. (2011) argue that comprehensive sex education improves
awareness and reduces risky behavior among teens.
Advantages:
Increases knowledge about reproductive health.it also encourages responsible
decision-making, Reduces myths and stigma about contraception.
Disadvantages:
May face resistance from conservative parents/communities, Requires trained
teachers, May not reach out-of-school teens.
Related Idea 2: Youth-Friendly Clinics and Health Services
Explanation:
Establishing health centers that are welcoming to teens can provide counselling and
access to contraception.
- Author: Chandra-Mouli et al. (2015) highlight that accessible services increase
contraceptive use among adolescents.
Advantages:
Offers confidential and non-judgmental support, Reduces unsafe abortions and
maternal risks.
3. Builds trust between youth and health professionals.
Disadvantages:
Limited availability in rural areas, Cultural stigma may deter user requires ongoing
funding.
Related Idea 3: Parental and Community Involvement
Explanation:
Engaging parents and local leaders in open dialogue helps create supportive
environments for teens.
- Author: Mhaka-Mutepfa et al. (2018) found that strong community involvement
leads to lower teenage pregnancy rates.
Advantages:
Breaks generational silence on sexuality, Strengthens monitoring of
children,Encourages collective responsibility.
Disadvantages:
Resistance due to cultural taboos,parents may lack proper knowledge. May exclude
youth voices if poorly handled.
Stage 3: Generation of Ideas
Below are possible solutions generated to help reduce early teenage pregnancy and its
effects:
Idea 1: Organize School-Based Workshops and Peer Education
Explanation:
Conduct interactive sessions where trained peer educators and teachers lead
discussions on sexual health, life goals, and consequences of early pregnancy.
Advantages:
Information is shared in a relatable, youth-friendly manner, Encourages peer support
and open discussions, Low-cost and easy to implement in schools.
Disadvantages:
May not reach out-of-school teens,Requires consistent monitoring.,Some students
may still be too shy to participate.
Idea 2: Community Awareness Campaigns and Dialogues
Explanation:
Hold community meetings, dramas, and awareness marches involving parents, church
leaders, and youths to discuss teenage pregnancy openly.
Advantages:
Helps break cultural silence,Promotes community-based support systems,Reaches a
broader audience beyond schools.
Disadvantages:
May face cultural resistance, Needs good coordination, Impact takes time to measure.
Idea 3: Establish Safe Spaces and Counselling Centers for Teens
Explanation:
Create teen-friendly environments for counselling, mentorship, and guidance,
especially for pregnant girls and teen mothers.
Advantages:
Supports girls emotionally and mentally,Helps them return to school or get vocational
training, Reduces stigma and isolation.
Disadvantages:
Needs funding and trained staff,Some communities may lack space. ,Risk of underuse
if not promoted well.
Stage 4: Development of Selected Idea
Selected Idea: Community Awareness Campaigns and Dialogues
Justification for the Idea:
- Teenage pregnancy is influenced by cultural silence, misinformation, and lack of
open family communication.
- Community campaigns can target parents, religious leaders, and youths together.
- This approach creates a supportive and informed environment for teens to make
responsible choices.
Refinement and Development:
1. Planning Phase:
- Identify key community stakeholders: chiefs, church leaders, teachers, parents, and
youth reps.
- Choose accessible venues like community halls, churches, or school grounds.
- Develop a schedule for dialogues, dramas, and awareness marches.
2. Message Development:
- Focus on real-life stories, the effects of early pregnancy, and prevention strategies.
- Promote responsible parenting, open communication, and access to services.
- Include messages encouraging girls to stay in school.
3. Delivery Methods:
- Use drama, poetry, and music performed by youths to attract attention.
- Distribute flyers and use loudhailers for mobilization.
- Invite local nurses or social workers for Q&A sessions.
4. Partnerships:
- Work with NGOs or health ministries for resources and speakers.
- Engage schools and clinics to provide data and follow-up support.
5. Monitoring & Feedback:
- Record attendance and participation.
- Collect feedback from community members through suggestion boxes or verbal
reviews.
- Adjust future events based on what worked best.
Stage 5: Presentation Of Results
