The Bongo Queen Mothers Association has urged stakeholders, including government agencies, traditional authorities, and religious leaders, to intensify collaborative efforts to address the rising rates of teenage pregnancy and early marriage in the district.
Speaking at their 5th Anniversary Celebration, the association expressed concern about the increasing trend of young girls leaving school due to early pregnancies and marriages, despite past interventions.
The Queen Mother of Bongo-Feo, Pognaba Agamboka Noyansonga-Kaisikoma, highlighted progress made between 2020 and 2022, where Bongo dropped from first to 11th position in teenage pregnancy cases among the 15 districts in the region. However, she noted a resurgence due to diminished efforts.
“We need the support of chiefs, regional leaders, and all relevant institutions to help secure the future of our children,” she said.
The association also shared achievements, including financial support for students in tertiary and vocational training, and reaffirmed its commitment to tackling socio-economic challenges affecting the youth.
The Paramount Chief of Bongo Traditional Area, Naba Baba Salifu Lemyarum, praised the queen mothers for their dedication and pledged his support for their initiatives.