Gauteng Health Mec's Schoolgirl Contraceptive Proposal Slammed

Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko's proposal to make the contraceptive implant Implanon compulsory for schoolgirls, with parental consent, has drawn criticism.

Nkomo-Ralehoko made the remarks during her visit to Tshwane Secondary School in Pretoria as part of the province's back-to-school drive.

The proposal comes amid rising concerns over teenage pregnancy rates in South Africa. However, Section 27's Health Attorney, Khuselwa Dyanti, has called the MEC's approach unlawful and misguided.

Dyanti says, "We do support initiatives that aim in addressing teenage pregnancy. In terms of the Childrens Act, children above the age of 12 can actually consent themselves and parental consent is only required when the child is below the age of 12. The other issue is that shes introducing these long-term contraceptives on a compulsory basis-"

"Two of the Children's Acts give the child the freedom to make their reproductive choices and practice body autonomy. Once parents sign that consent form, all of those rights are being taken away from young girls." she added.