In light of the alarming findings, the Presbyterian Church in Rwanda (EPR), through its Department of Health and the ESMPA Project (Education of Youth on Responsible Sexuality and Promotion of Positive Masculinity), supported by the Germany Protestant development organization (Bread for the World – Protestant Development Service), has committed itself to contributing to the fight against teenage pregnancies.
It is in that regard that on 11th May 2025 at EPR Nyarubuye Parish, a graduation ceremony was held for 18 teen single mothers trained in vocational trades, during which they were awarded certificates and startup kits to support their journey towards economic self-reliance. For whole intervention area of the project, 331 single mothers got trained so far.
It was emphasized that such an initiative serves as a reminder of everyone’s responsibility in preventing teenage pregnancies. Supporting young mothers in acquiring professional skills, as stated by Mr. Jean Claude Hakizimana (Field Supervisor of the project activities), is intended to challenge societal perceptions and demonstrate that adolescent mothers are capable of contributing positively to the local economy and should be socially integrated.
Among major causes of teenage pregnancy, include a lack of accurate and unbiased information on reproductive health, Household poverty; Gender-based violence.
The importance of financial autonomy was underlined, stating that poverty drives some girls to accept advances that lead to irresponsible sexual activity and, consequently, unwanted pregnancies. To counter this, the project supports youth savings and credit groups, along with vocational training for teen mothers raising children on their own, empowering them to generate income and enhance their livelihoods.
During the interview with parents, many expressed their appreciation for the project. The parents of the young single mothers acknowledged that early pregnancies often stem from ignorance, poverty, or a lack of responsibility. Some reported that their daughters, now trained in sewing, had started producing clothes for the family or selling their products. They stressed the importance of parental involvement in educating children about reproductive health through closeness and open dialogue.
Pastor Gad BIREGEYA, head of the EPR Nyarubuye Parish, highlighted that the project had helped young single mothers emerge from isolation and reintegrate into the Church.
