By Rahim Abdul
The Machinga District Health Office has reported a decline in abortion cases from 1,122 in 2024 to 735 between January and June 2025.
According to Jacqueline Kaminyu, Post Abortion Care Services Coordinator at Machinga DHO, factors such as restrictive legal frameworks, unintended teenage pregnancies, and sexual violence contribute to the high number of cases.
Kaminyu emphasized the need for increased access to contraceptives, highlighting the DHO’s collaboration with youth clubs and community structures to promote contraceptive use and reduce unsafe abortions.
The DHO’s efforts aim to address the root causes of unwanted pregnancies and promote reproductive health.
The media training on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and the proposed Termination of Pregnancy Bill provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the importance of access to safe reproductive healthcare.
As the DHO continues to work towards reducing unsafe abortions, the community’s support and awareness are crucial in promoting positive change.
