Kwaku Badu, the District Health Promotion Officer of Atiwa West

The District Health Promotion Officer of Atiwa West, Kwaku Badu, has blamed illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, for the increasing cases of teenage pregnancies and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in the area.

Speaking during a health screening and community durbar with school children, Badu said several communities in the district were experiencing high rates of STIs and teenage pregnancies.

In a metrotvonline.com report on June 26, 2025, he attributed this worrying trend to the social and economic consequences of galamsey, which he said often expose young people to risky behaviours.

As part of measures to curb the menace, health clubs have been established in schools to raise awareness about reproductive health, teenage pregnancy, and STIs.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Akyem Pameng, Barima Okotoh Dansoa II, has cautioned parents against the practice of child marriages, describing it as detrimental to the education and futures of young girls.

He urged parents to prioritise the education of their children and advised young girls to avoid behaviours that could lead to early pregnancies and infections.

The chief further called for unity among residents to foster development in the district.

MRA/AE

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