Rising Cases of Unsafe Abortions Raise Concern in Machinga

Health authorities and stakeholders in Machinga District have raised alarm over the growing number of unsafe abortion cases, particularly among young people. In 2024 alone, 1,122 cases of unsafe abortion and four related deaths were recorded, marking a troubling increase from three deaths reported in 2023. Speaking during a recent multi-stakeholder meeting organized by the Foundation for Civic Education and Social Empowerment (FOCESE), with support from Amplify Change, Jacqueline Kaminu, the Post-Abortion Care Programme Coordinator at Machinga District Hospital, revealed that youth aged 15 to 25 are the most affected demographic. "So far, we have recorded over 3,000 cases in the past two years. At the same time, we know that there are cases that occur within communities and go unreported," Kaminu stated. She emphasized that post-abortion care requires significant funding and coordinated efforts to address both the medical and social dimensions of the issue. Belinda Somanje Chimombo, Chairperson of Machinga Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Executive Director of Youth Impact Organisation, expressed deep concern about the trend. “We need to join hands in raising awareness among women of child-bearing age and young people,” she urged. The meeting brought together a diverse group of participants, including religious leaders, health officials, civil society leaders, and district council representatives. Religious figures such as Sheikh Hamidi Shaibu and Pastor Siphorian Chisale acknowledged that unsafe abortion practices are occurring even among members of their congregations, highlighting the need for open dialogue and joint community action. The growing number of cases underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reproductive health education, access to youth-friendly services, and stronger community engagement to address the root causes of unsafe abortions and prevent further loss of life.