Rwanda has enacted a new law allowing teenagers aged 15 and older to obtain contraception without needing parental consent.
This move aims to address the country’s high rates of teenage pregnancy. The legislation, passed by parliament on Monday as part of a broader healthcare bill, reduces the minimum legal age from 18 to 15.
With a population of roughly 13 million about 40% of whom are under 15 Rwanda has faced significant challenges with teenage pregnancies, which exceeded 22,000 cases last year alone.
Lawmakers believe this policy change will help decrease unintended pregnancies, reduce school dropouts, and lower the incidence of unsafe abortions among young people.
John Scarius, director of the Great Lakes Initiative for Human Rights and Development, welcomed the decision, highlighting that many girls become sexually active before age 15 and calling the law a progressive step.
The new legislation grants access to contraceptive pills, implants, and promotes condom use.
According to a report presented to parliament, nearly 100,000 teenage girls in Rwanda have experienced unwanted pregnancies over the past five years, a leading cause of educational disruption.
Despite support, some parents and retired healthcare professionals voiced concerns. Karemera Charlotte, a parent, warned that the law could encourage immoral behavior and potentially increase abortion rates a practice that remains illegal in Rwanda except in cases of rape, incest, or forced marriage.
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