Advocates Call for Legal Reforms at Open House for International Safe Abortion Day

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

My Age Zimbabwe, a youth-led organisation, hosted an Open House event on Wednesday in anticipation of International Safe Abortion Day, bringing together parliamentarians, stakeholders, young women, and girls to engage in critical discussions about access to safe abortion services in Zimbabwe.

This event marked the launch of "The Silent Treatment", a theatrical performance that illustrated the diverse stories and challenges faced by women and girls seeking safe abortion services.

International Safe Abortion Day, observed annually on September 28, advocates for the right to safe abortion.

Speaking at the event, Gweru Urban MP Josiah Makombe, representing the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health, highlighted the Open House as an essential platform for knowledge acquisition and meaningful dialogue on safe abortion issues.

“This Open House is vital for learning from experts and mapping the way forward to improve access to safe abortion and disseminate information for young people to make informed decisions,” he stated.

Tendaishe Changamire, representing young women, emphasized the urgent need for change and the review of the Termination of Pregnancy Act.

She argued that the current restrictive law drives women into unsafe circumstances, stating, “It is imperative that we address this law, which forces women into unsafe situations. Change is essential to protect their health and rights.”

The discussions highlighted the urgent need to advocate for a revision of the Termination of Pregnancy Act, which limits women’s autonomy over their reproductive choices. Participants shared their experiences and insights, shedding light on the obstacles that hinder access to safe and legal abortion services.

A key outcome of the Open House was a collective commitment among attendees to engage with policymakers to foster an environment that emphasizes women’s rights and health.

The collaboration among diverse stakeholders reaffirmed that access to safe abortion is not only a medical imperative but also a fundamental human right.

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