Civil society groups unite under the theme “Safe Abortion is Life-saving Healthcare” to affirm the right to choice and reproductive justice in South Africa.
By Bunmi Yekini
A coalition of reproductive health and rights organisations will mark this year’s International Safe Abortion Day (ISAD) with an Imbizo in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on 29 September. The gathering, hosted by Ibis Reproductive Health in partnership with Section27, Soul City Institute, MB Teen Lifestyle, Accountability International, Ipas Africa Southern Region and Tiko, is set to provide young people with a safe space to openly discuss abortion access and rights.
“This year’s theme – Safe Abortion is Life-saving Healthcare! reminds us that the right to choose is not just a legal guarantee under our Constitution and the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act, but a matter of justice, dignity and survival,” said Ms. Claire Mawisa, investigative journalist and board member of Ibis Reproductive Health, who will moderate the Imbizo’s panel discussion.
The first session, titled “An Unstoppable Movement of Resistance and Solidarity for Safe Abortion,” will feature abortion providers, legal experts, researchers, religious voices and activists sharing insights on barriers young people face in accessing safe services. The second session will host a Values Clarification and Attitudes Transformation workshop designed to help participants unpack how cultural, moral and religious values influence their perceptions of abortion.
Across sub-Saharan Africa, unsafe abortion remains a leading cause of maternal deaths, accounting for nearly 30%. Alarmingly, over 6 million unsafe abortions every year affect women and girls under the age of 25.
“Access to safe abortion is about more than healthcare, it’s about ensuring that every person, no matter their age, background or belief, can exercise control over their body and their future,” said a joint statement from the partner organisations.
The partners emphasised that creating safe spaces for young people to engage without stigma or fear is key to achieving reproductive justice.
“As civil society, we are committed to shifting harmful mindsets and addressing the disinformation that continues to put young lives at risk,” the statement added. “The choice to access safe abortion is a human right that upholds bodily autonomy and dignity.”
The Imbizo at The Forge in Braamfontein will run from 10:00 to 14:00, bringing together youth voices, advocates and experts to reimagine a future where reproductive rights are fully respected and protected.