Angola adolescent pregnancy rates decline to 27.1% nationally

Angola has seen a 21.5% reduction in adolescent pregnancy rates over the last decade, according to a report by the National Institute of Statistics (INE). Based on data from the 2023-2024 Multiple Indicator and Health Survey (IIMS), the national prevalence for girls aged 15 to 19 dropped from 34.5% to 27.1%.

Despite this national decline, the rate remains higher than the Sub-Saharan African average of approximately 18%. Significant regional disparities exist: Cuanza Sul reported the highest prevalence at 51.4%, followed by Cuando-Cubango at 44% and Cuanza Norte at 41.3%. In contrast, Luanda recorded the lowest rate at 13.9%, a decrease from 21.2% in the 2015-2016 period, which officials suggest may reflect better access to education and healthcare services.

The report highlights that pregnancy is more frequent in rural areas and among adolescents with no formal schooling. While several provinces like Malanje and Lunda Sul saw substantial decreases, Bengo experienced a 2.7 percentage point increase. The INE noted that while progress is evident, the persistence of high rates in specific regions necessitates targeted strategies to accelerate reduction efforts.