In Angola, in the heart of the Cunene province, change comes through awareness. Since November 2023, Doctors with Africa CUAMM has been committed to the “START” project, funded by the European Union and implemented together with Adespov and Codespa: an initiative dedicated to strengthening the health and nutritional status of women and children, while promoting gender equality. Among the most delicate challenges faced daily is that of early pregnancies, a phenomenon that often marks the boundary between the possibility of an independent future and the forced abandonment of studies.
October 26 was a significant day at the Simione Mucune school. Together with partners from AJMMO (Youth Association of Women for Women), a meeting was held with 55 girls, aged between 11 and 15, to speak openly about health, rights, and the future. It was not just an informative moment, but a true space for listening.
“In addition to the risks to the physical and mental health of the adolescent and the child, early pregnancy can affect the school, professional, and personal life of the young mother. Many pregnant adolescents face discrimination, a lack of support from family and the community, and difficulties in completing their studies and accessing job opportunities,” the association’s president firmly stated when discussing the impact of this issue.
Pregnancies between the ages of 15 and 19 are often the result of a complex mix of factors: cultural conditioning, socio-economic fragility and, above all, a profound lack of information and access to reproductive health services. The enthusiasm and curiosity shown by the students confirm how urgent it is to break the silence. The girls did not just listen: they called loudly for more meetings on female empowerment and the creation of a safe and personal space where they can share doubts and daily problems without fear of being judged.
For Cuamm, investing in the health of adolescents means investing in the entire community. Supporting these girls in their educational journey and personal growth is the most effective way to guarantee them the freedom to choose who they want to become.
Because an informed girl today is the pillar of a stronger and more independent society tomorrow.
