Factor s for the persistent primary school girls’ pregnancies in Tanzania: the case of Bagamoyo district

The purpose of the study was to examine the factors for the persistent primary school girls’ pregnancies in Tanzania. The study drew on four research tasks: (i) to investigate the status and trend of school girls’ pregnancies, (ii) to identify factors for persistent school girls’ pregnancies, (iii) to examine the efforts made to prevent school girls’ pregnancies and (iv) to collect views from different stakeholders on how to eliminate the problem of school girls’ pregnancies. The study employed a qualitative approach, applying a case study design and involved four primary schools in Bagamoyo district. The study sample comprised 70 informants including ex-pregnant school girls, parents, NGO’s officers, community members, head teachers, district education officers, MoEVT officers and the resident magistrate. Data were collected through interviews (focus group discussion and face-to-face interviews), observation and a document search. The data collected were analyzed mainly qualitatively in terms of research tasks and questions. Data on the intensity of the problem were analyzed quantitatively so as to show its trend. The findings of the study revealed that: First, every school has experienced girls’ pregnancies, and that the problem is on increase. Secondly, cultural, social, economic and legal factors were the forces behind the persistence of school girls’ pregnancies. Thirdly, there are efforts from the government, Bagamoyo district education office, heads of schools and NGO’s to eliminate the problem. However the efforts have not been successful. Fourthly, the informants’ views to eliminate the problem could be divided into education, legal, social, economic and cultural dimensions. The study concluded that school girls’ pregnancies are still a serious, persistent problem in Tanzania and occurs due to a combination of factors. Despite the strong impact it has to girls’ life, the law which the following: First, the need to review the laws. Secondly, there is a need for provision of educational programmes on sex education and laws. Thirdly, there is the need to have collaborative efforts between the government and other stakeholders in preventing school girls’ pregnancies.