Anja Loven, the founder of the Nigeria-based NGO Land of Hope shared the story of one of the children, Ekemini. She was a teenage mother, and her cruel yet inspirational story is the perfect way to reflect on the evils of teen pregnancies. The young girl was only 13 when Anja and David rescued her from her community.
The community accused her of being a witch. Under this common superstitious belief, they mistreated the young woman. Anja Ringgren Loven shared that they rescued Ekemini only a month before she gave birth. Expanding on her experience, Anja said that due to her young age, she had to have a caesarean.
The founder of Land of Hope observed that teenage pregnancy is a major health issue in Africa. Many young girls die during delivery. A study in Nigeria shows that 33% of maternal mortality is because of teenage pregnancy. Ekemini was very lucky we rescued her in time. But despite her situation, she was so strong.
Anja shared that, to date, she had never heard Ekemini complain. An hour after giving birth, she was ready to stand up and leave the hospital. Being a teenage mom comes with many challenges. Accordingly, it was very important for us to teach Ekemini how to be a mother.
She was a child, so our priority was for her to develop a healthy and strong bond with her baby. She shared that Ekemini was and still is today one of the most inspiring young women I have ever met! Despite being a teenage mom, she was determined to return to school.
It was very important for us to teach Ekemini how to navigate being a young mother and take care of her studies simultaneously. But look at Abasiofon today! He is the cutest, wisest and most handsome boy you will ever meet! Ekemini raised him with so much love and care, and in 2 years, we will celebrate Ekemini when she graduates from secondary school
