Botswana Author Pens Book to Address Teen Pregnancy, Child Safety
The book, "Lolo The Lost Preggy," follows a young woman's misadventure while gathering firewood, serving as a platform to address issues from child safety to teenage pregnancy.
GABORONE, Botswana — In a bid to tackle rising concerns about teenage pregnancy and child safety, local author Daisy Peloewetse has written a children's book that weaves traditional village life with modern social challenges, writes AfricaBrief Reporter.
The book, "Lolo The Lost Preggy," follows a young woman's misadventure while gathering firewood, serving as a platform to address issues from child safety to teenage pregnancy.
"Children tend to be ignorant, and it is important that every parent take the responsibility of teaching their kids about what to do when lost and ensuring their security and safety all the time," Peloewetse said.
A mother of four and public administration graduate from Tutume Village, Peloewetse plans to launch a nationwide pregnancy awareness campaign, focusing particularly on youth and teens.
"Early pregnancy doesn't need scrutiny and condemnation but rather support and more love," she said.
"Shouting and condemnation leaves kids feeling useless and vulnerable."
Peloewetse emphasizes the role of proper parental guidance in monitoring children's exposure to modern technology and media.
She points to television and internet content as potential influences on teenage behaviour and moral development.
"Contraceptive use is vital in this age as HIV is still a social crisis," she said, while also stressing the importance of abstinence until maturity.
The author, who works full-time but plans to use her spare time for community outreach, believes in a faith-based approach to preventing juvenile delinquency. She advocates for bringing children closer to religious principles as a way to ease parenting challenges.
"I hope the children shall enjoy my book," Peloewetse said, adding that her work aims to preserve the village experience in children's literature while addressing contemporary issues.