Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Anthony Idowu Ajayi, Research Scientist, African Population and Health Research Center
Published on 2024-04-07 11:05:43
Intimate partner violence is a prevalent issue that often begins early in life. Studies show that approximately one in four girls aged 15 to 19 have already experienced physical or sexual violence. Girls who endure abuse in their youth are at a higher risk of facing intimate partner violence later in life, highlighting the cycle of violence that can persist into adulthood.
Research conducted in the Blantyre district of southern Malawi focused on intimate partner violence among pregnant and parenting adolescents. Shockingly, two out of five pregnant and parenting adolescents in the study had experienced intimate partner violence. This underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions, particularly for girls aged 17 and younger, as well as those engaging in transactional sex.
Factors such as sexual violence and child marriage contribute to early pregnancy among adolescents. The transition to adulthood is a critical period where adolescents navigate dating, sexuality, and partnerships, often forming lasting patterns of violence acceptance. A demographic and health survey revealed that nearly a third of girls aged 15 to 19 in Blantyre were pregnant or had given birth, emphasizing the prevalence of early pregnancy in the region.
The study surveyed 669 participants aged 10 to 19 in both rural and urban areas. Questions focused on physical, emotional, and sexual abuse experiences, with alarming percentages of participants reporting various forms of violence from their intimate partners. Factors such as age, education level, and engaging in transactional sex were linked to increased risk of intimate partner violence.
Closing the gap in research on intimate partner violence among pregnant and parenting girls in Africa is crucial. Specialized policies and programs, including safe houses and awareness campaigns, are needed to support these vulnerable individuals. Healthcare providers should also screen pregnant and parenting adolescents for signs of violence and offer support. Additionally, efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and support survivors in reporting abuse are essential in combating intimate partner violence in Malawi and beyond.
