The Coalition for the Prevention of Unsafe Abortion (Copua) is urging young people in Malawi to access reproductive health services in order to prevent unsafe abortions. According to Copua's research, unsafe abortion contributes to 18 percent of maternal deaths in the country. This call to action was made during the commemoration of International Safe Abortion Day in Balaka District.
Kettie Mikwala, chairperson of Copua's youth permanent committee, emphasized the importance of women and girls having access to reproductive health services to prevent unplanned pregnancies. She encouraged government, non-governmental organisations, traditional and religious leaders to work together to ensure access to family planning and other sexual and reproductive health services.
Paramount Chief Kawinga of the Yao has challenged stakeholders to clarify their position on the proposed Termination of Pregnancy Bill. He believes that a clear stance on the bill will help protect women and girls from unnecessary deaths caused by unsafe abortion. Restrictive abortion laws are currently forcing girls and young women to resort to unsafe procedures due to limited access to safe options.
Parliamentary Committee on Health member Jeremiah Jumbe has stressed the need for Parliament to review abortion laws in order to save the lives of women whose pregnancies threaten their health. He believes that reviewing the laws relating to abortion is crucial in reducing maternal mortality rates in the country.
The Muslim Ulama National Council and the Anglican Church have provided their perspectives on abortion. Quadria Muslim Ulama National Council chairperson Jimu Omar Sulaimana stated that Islam prohibits abortion, but allows it when continuing a pregnancy endangers the mother's life.
Father Martin Kalimbe of the Anglican Church, who is also board chairperson of the Religious Leaders Network for Comprehensive Health through Options through Innovative Community Engagement, said religious leaders have a duty to help pregnant women access safe abortion services when their lives are at risk. This stance is in line with the commemoration's theme of 'Solidarity in action for advancement of reproductive justice in Malawi for reduction of maternal morbidity and mortality from unsafe abortion'.
The commemoration of International Safe Abortion Day in Balaka District brought together various stakeholders to raise awareness about the importance of reproductive health services. The event aimed to promote access to safe abortion services and reduce maternal mortality rates in Malawi.
Key points
- Unsafe abortion contributes to 18 percent of maternal deaths in Malawi.
- Copua is urging young people to access reproductive health services to prevent unsafe abortions.
- Stakeholders are calling for a review of abortion laws to save the lives of women whose pregnancies threaten their health.
