Unsafe abortion is recognized as a problem of significant public health, ranked among the top five causes of maternal death in Zambia.
The Zambia Association Of Gynecologists & Obstetricians (ZAGO), conducted a research between July and August 2021, and found that Copperbelt Province has the highest number of unsafe abortions, with Kitwe recording 7-8 cases per week.
The increase is due to lack of knowledge on safe pregnancy termination and discrimination among others.
ZAGO President Dr. Swebby Macha in a Research Findings Report, read on his behalf by ZAGO Vice Publicity Chairperson Mwansa Lubeya, said the research also indicated that females between the ages of 25-30 years are indulging in unsafe abortion.
And, Dr. Macha said the latest findings have also shown that unsafe abortion remains a major challenge in Zambia, despite an existing law, “The termination of Pregnancy act of 1972” that is considered liberal.
