MPs from the Junior National Council (JNC) have attributed school dropouts to teenage pregnancies, substance abuse, cultural norms, and economic household challenges.

The ||Kharas region has recorded 261 teenage pregnancies and 1,051 pregnancy-related school dropouts between 2022 and 2026.

This was revealed during Miss World Namibia Elly Aron's courtesy visit to the Regional Educational Directorate Office in Keetmanshoop.

Namibia's demographic future depends on investing in young people and tackling challenges such as teenage pregnancy, speakers said on Thursday as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) launched the Demographic Future Report, while the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) premiered a two-part documentary highl

Teenage pregnancy continues to be a pressing concern in the Ohangwena Region, with over 10,000 recorded from 2021 until 2025.

Ohangwena Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa revealed the statistics during the Miss World Namibia send-off gala dinner at Eenhana.

Gender-based violence and sexual assault are global issues that threaten the lives and futures of young girls and women, and they remain a significant concern in Namibia.

Officials from various countries convened for a side event focused on empowering youth in Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Inclusive Leadership, ahead of the upcoming Summit for the Future, co-hosted by Namibia and Germany,.

Quintina Tjizumaue scooped the Miss Non-Governmental Organisation title at a glittery event in the capital. 

Romancia Seibes came out as the first runner-up, followed by Celither Baldwin.

Tjizumaue, in her new role, will serve as the ambassador of all local NGOs and civil society organisations.

The Star for Life organisation engaged Ella du Plessis High School girls on the importance of entrepreneurial skills.

The Star for Life was established in 2009 to reduce the risks of violence and sexual exploitation for girls as well as prepare them to be independent. 

High cases of teenage pregnancy among girls aged between 13 and 19 years old in Kamanjab, Kunene Region, remain a burning social issue that needs concerted efforts to address.