By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
The Mpopoli Community Hall in Ngodini(Kabokweni), under the Ehlanzeni District, was a hive of activity an informative awareness campaign on teenage pregnancy and substance abuse.
The vibrant event, attended by boys and girls aged 10 to 19, was led by the Department of Health in Mpumalanga in conjunction with Soul City, aimed at empowering learners to make informed decisions pertaining to their sexual and reproductive health well-being.
According to the Department, the campaign also educated the young learners about mental health, available youth services in primary healthcare facilities, and the Youth Zone.
“ The awareness campaign sought to fight against teenage pregnancy and create awareness about the dangers and consequences of substance abuse, such as alcohol and drugs, which can lead to multiple social ills, including rape, teenage pregnancy, and exposure to HIV and AIDS, and other sexually transmitted diseases,” said the Department of Health.
Additional activities during the campaign included young people sharing educational and instructional poems, as well as aerobics, and laughter courtesy of renowned Mpumalanga comedian, Matthew Bhoza.
Healthcare professionals also erected stalls to share more information about the topics at hand, as well as providing comprehensive healthcare services.
