Comprehensive sexuality education in curbing adolescent pregnancy in Nigeria and Rwanda

Adolescent pregnancies increase the risk of prominent complications such as hypertensive disorders, anaemia, and delivery hurdles. Previous studies have suggested the integration of comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) programs to reduce the rate of adolescent pregnancies, but there is limited information on how these programs are implemented in sub-Saharan Africa. This review seeks to shed light on the implementation of CSE in reducing unintended adolescent pregnancies in two different African countries: Nigeria and Rwanda. Data were collected from Google Scholar, PubMed, and policy papers via narrative review search strategies. All retrieved papers, published between 2011 and 2023 were analysed to assess CSE implementation in Nigeria and Rwanda. A total of 32 papers (articles and reports) were cross-checked and considered during a narrative synthesis of this paper. In Nigeria and Rwanda, CSE has been integrated into school curricula and extracurriculars to influence teens’ decisions concerning sexuality. Additionally, social media platforms, mass media programs such as radio listening clubs, and peer education have been implemented to deliver CSE. However, cultural and religious beliefs have made both countries less reliant on concepts of contraception other than abstinence. African governments should enhance the exchange of knowledge, experiences, successes, and challenges in CSE strategies to reduce unintended adolescent pregnancy. There is also a need for organized comprehensive training that equips parents and educators with appropriate knowledge and communication skills for effective and inclusive delivery of CSE concepts. Further research should assess the specific role of CSE in reducing adolescent pregnancy.