The Eastern Cape is facing a heartbreaking crisis as shocking numbers of young girls give birth in public hospitals. From April to July 2025 alone:
- 117 girls aged 10–14 gave birth
- 4,700+ teens aged 15–19 also delivered babies
- The worst-hit areas: OR Tambo district, Buffalo City Metro, and Nelson Mandela Bay
Across the 2024/25 financial year, 396 births were recorded for the 10–14 age group, and 14,903 births among teens aged 15–19.
In response, Eastern Cape police have opened rape cases tied to some of the underage pregnancies. While some cases are already in court, at least three have been withdrawn by families—something officials strongly warn against.
Officials stressed that “parents who dropped charges undermined the justice system and put other children at risk,” adding that “communities had a legal duty to report all cases.”
Authorities say any sexual activity involving children under 16 is illegal, even if both are underage. Communities are legally required to report these cases.
Officials blame poverty, lack of education, and cultural silence for fuelling the problem. Law enforcement is now working with social workers to support victims and ensure families don’t shy away from pressing charges.
