KAMPALA, UGANDA – In Uganda’s rural Kiryandongo District, a devastating convergence of climate change, poverty, and exploitation is driving a surge in teenage pregnancies.
The alarming rate of teenage pregnancies in the region is highlighted in a new documentary, “Youth at the Crossroads: Sex and Climate,” premiered at the American Centre in Kampala.
Investigative journalist Canary Mugume, who directed the documentary, says his research revealed surprising connections between climate change and sexual reproductive health.
“I initially thought it was just about food production, but it’s about economic stability, survival, and the vulnerability of young girls,” Mugume explained.
Mugume’s investigation took him to Apodorwa in Kiryandongo District, where he met a young girl celebrated for being the only girl to reach Primary 7 and score 14 aggregates. However, her dreams were shattered when she got pregnant and dropped out in Senior 1.
The girl’s story is not unique. In Kiryandongo, shifting weather patterns lead to food scarcity, forcing families to make desperate decisions.
“Good weather and rainfall lead to food production primarily for survival, not sale,” Mugume said. “When weather patterns shift, families do whatever it takes to get food, including exploiting young girls.”
Experts agree that climate change affects multiple sectors, including health and agriculture.
“Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue,” said Raymond Ruyoka, Advocacy Officer at Reach A Hand Uganda. “We must integrate food security programs with Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights initiatives.”
The documentary premiere featured a keynote address from the Ministry of Health and a panel discussion with representatives from various organizations.
Mugume emphasized the need for integrated climate change and sexual reproductive health strategies.
“The two are intertwined,” Mugume said. “We must adapt our messages to today’s context.”
Youth Advocacy and Development Network Uganda (YADNET) representatives stressed the importance of addressing the intersection of climate change, health, and economic stability.
The documentary sheds light on community-driven solutions to protect and empower girls facing these harsh realities.
Reach A Hand Uganda and Sauti Plus Media Hub collaborated on the documentary.
Ministry of Health officials acknowledged the need for increased support for sexual reproductive health services in rural areas.
As Uganda struggles to address teenage pregnancies, experts warn that climate change will only exacerbate the challenge.
The documentary serves as a call to action, highlighting the urgent need for climate resilience and reproductive health initiatives.
Video: Watch the trailer for “Youth at the Crossroads: Sex and Climate” documentary
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