By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
A 28-year-old man has been arrested for the statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl who gave birth to a baby boy on Christmas Day.
According to the National Department of Health, over 1 360 babies were safely delivered at public health facilities across the country on Christmas Day.
The department said the number of teen mothers has decreased from 145 in 2023 to just under 90.
Among the new teenage mothers is a 13-year-old who gave birth to a healthy baby at Seshego Hospital, located outside Polokwane.
Three 15-year-olds delivered their babies at Emmaus, Hlabisa, and St Andrews Hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal. In addition, a 16-year-old gave birth to a baby boy at Klerksdorp-Tshepong Tertiary Hospital in the North West.
SA Police Services (SAPS) said the two met at a shopping complex in January where they began communicating until they became intimate in May.
Limpopo police spokesperson, Brigdier Hlulani Mashaba, said the girl only revealed the intimacy to her aunt after experiencing complications.
“Later in November, medical tests confirmed she was eight months pregnant, thus ultimately giving birth to a baby boy on Christmas Day.
“The police were informed about the incident and a statutory rape case was registered for further investigations,” said Mashaba.
She said the man was arrested on Thursday.
Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, expressed her gratitude for the police’s prompt action.
“We welcome this quick response by the SAPS after the hospital had raised concern over a 13-year-old giving birth during Christmas.
“It is now our responsibility to make sure that the judiciary acts in accordance with the extent of the crime. Statutory rape is visible in many parts of our province, and we need to end such a sad chapter.”
The Premier emphasised the importance of protecting the rights of children and ensuring that justice is served.
“The man is in custody in Seshego and will soon make an appearance in court. We must remain vigilant and committed to preventing such heinous acts in our communities,” she added.
Meanwhile the African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) has expressed concern over the rising rate of teenage pregnancy.
The ANCWL secretary-general Nokuthula Nqaba said the alarming trend not only jeopardises the health and future prospects of young girls but also underscores the critical issues surrounding broken homes, inadequate parenting structures, and the overall social fabric of our society.
“Teenage pregnancy is a multifaceted issue rooted in a variety of societal challenges, including poverty, lack of access to education, and limited awareness regarding sexual and reproductive health. Young women who become pregnant during their teenage years often face significant challenges that can affect their emotional, physical, and mental well-being, “she said.
Nqaba pointed out that the demands of motherhood at such a young age can lead to a cascade of difficulties, including the interruption of their education and limited employment opportunities.
She said this, in turn, perpetuates a cycle of poverty that can impact future generations.
“Many of these young mothers are raising children in broken homes or unstable environments, leading to potential neglect and emotional instability for both the parents and the children involved. The effects of familial disintegration can be profound, contributing to feelings of isolation and despair among young pregnant women. This situation can further exacerbate the challenges of parenting, as they often lack the necessary support systems that promote healthy child development,” she said.