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The Inkatha Freedom Party is deeply concerned after recent studies have revealed that about 85% of new born babies had died after being abandoned by their mothers either in refuse dumps or other public places.

“These findings are a sad indictment on our society and raises many questions as to the cause of such callous behaviour on the part of mothers. It is indeed very sad that the study reveals that neonaticide, the killing of babies not older than 28 days, is a trend that has become so prevalent in our society. This clearly demonstrates that there is a dramatic increase in unwanted pregnancies. It also shows that in most cases mothers are left to care for their babies without the support of the fathers," said IFP Spokesperson on Health, Mrs Ncamisile Nkwanyana, MPL

"As the economic crunch threatens to become worse, this situation is bound to become even more serious as more vulnerable babies will be abandoned. The rising cost of living and other social ills tend to impact more on the poor thus resulting in more babies being killed either immediately after birth or with one year of their lives. There is an urgent need for improved education and awareness around the issue of pregnancy and legal abortions. Very often pregnant mothers are not aware of the legal avenues that are available to them in the event of an unwanted pregnancy," continued Mrs Nkwanyana

"When they first become aware of their pregnancy and they go to a clinic, there must be efficient support services that will advise and counsel them with regards to their rights and options. The law need to be strengthened with regard to the roles and responsibilities of fathers in the relationship. Fathers need to be brought on board immediately and be counselled together with the expectant mothers so that there is mutual responsibility for the child. All community role-players must be involved in educating and making their respective members aware of the seriousness of the problem that we are facing as a society”, concluded Mrs Nkwanyana.

Issued by IFP