JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, Sept. 4, 2025 – Alarming figures reveal that over 100 children as young as 10 to 14 in the Eastern Cape have given birth between April and July this year, sparking deep concern from child welfare organizations.
Youngest Mothers Highlight Alarming Pregnancy Crisis
Childline South Africa expresses grave worry over the escalating rates of minors becoming pregnant nationwide.
- More than 100 children aged 10-14 gave birth in the Eastern Cape from April to July.
- Nearly 5,000 teenagers also gave birth in the same provincial period.
- Police are investigating adults accused of impregnating these minors.
- Childline calls the trend a “widely common occurrence” across South Africa.
What are the latest figures on child pregnancies? In the Eastern Cape, between April and July this year, more than 100 children between 10 and 14 years old gave birth, alongside nearly 5,000 teenage mothers.
Eastern cape Reports Startling Statistics
The Eastern Cape government released stark statistics on Wednesday, detailing that more than 100 children, aged 10 to 14, gave birth between April and July this year. In that same timeframe, close to 5,000 teenagers also welcomed newborns.
Provincial police have initiated investigations, opening several cases against adults suspected of impregnating minors. This situation underscores a disturbing trend that child advocates say is far too common.
“The numbers are alarming,” stated Dumisile Cele, National Childline executive officer.”This is a situation we have been experiencing for the past few years.” She emphasized the importance of community professionals and reporting mechanisms for these vulnerable young people.
Cele described the pregnancy crisis among minors as a “widely common occurrence across the contry.” Childline is actively encouraging reporting through official channels, ensuring that these young individuals receive the necessary support and professional intervention.
– South Africa’s Children’s Act defines a child as anyone under 18. Pregnancy in adolescents is linked to poverty, lack of access to education, and gender-based violence. Support services are available through Childline and local social welfare organizations.
