Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
23 February 2025 | 15:00 CAT

South Africa has made progress, but the reality is that too many young women still struggle to access the healthcare, support and resources they need. (Source – Soul City Institute)

As South Africa observes Reproductive Health Month, the Soul City Institute celebrates 30 years of championing reproductive justice and feminist advocacy, placing a strong focus on addressing reproductive rights and health equity.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Pontsho Pilane, Communications and Advocacy Manager at Soul City Institute, emphasized the urgency of addressing the country’s staggering adolescent birth rates. “Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest adolescent birth rate globally, with 99 births per 1,000 young women aged 15 to 19,” Pilane noted. Early pregnancies often result in serious health risks and long-term socio-economic disadvantages for young girls.

For the Soul City Institute, reproductive justice extends beyond health—it embodies the social, economic, and political freedoms enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive lives. “It’s about understanding the systemic barriers that young women face, from stigmatization in healthcare settings to societal norms that disadvantage them,” Pilane explained.

Pilane also highlighted the alarming prevalence of statutory rape cases, where girls as young as 10 become mothers. “We need to question who is fathering these children and why reporting mechanisms are failing. Communities, families, and healthcare providers all play a role in ensuring accountability,” she stressed.

The challenges extend to cultural and societal norms. Pilane pointed out how traditional values often stigmatize young women seeking contraceptives, leading many to avoid healthcare services altogether. “We hear stories of young women afraid to access contraceptives because of judgmental attitudes at clinics or backlash from family members,” she said.

In response to these challenges, the Soul City Institute launched the Feminist Leadership and Activism Centre (FLAC) in 2022, an initiative aimed at cultivating feminist leaders. “FLAC nurtures young women and gender-diverse people to become changemakers, equipped to challenge societal norms and advocate for gender equity,” Pilane shared.

As Soul City reflects on 30 years of impact, the call remains clear: fostering an environment where reproductive rights are respected, and young women can thrive free from systemic barriers.

Listen to the full interview with Annisa Essack and Pontsho Pilane, Communications and Advocacy Manager at Soul City Institute on Radio Islam International.