STRENGTHENED BY CHOICE:
TEREFECH’S STORY
By Fana Abay, Marketing and Communication Director, & Mesfin Tesfaye, Manager III, Quality Assurance and Training, PSI Ethiopia
In the rural community of Kebele Fudale in Ethiopia’s Gerese district, 19-year-old Terefech Kassaye’s story is one of remarkable change and hope. As the second of five siblings, Terefech faced great economic and personal challenges at an early age. She married at the age of 16 and had to leave school due to financial constraints, reflecting a common problem in rural Ethiopia. The Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS 2019) shows that around 33% of girls in rural areas are married before age 18, often due to economic pressures and complex socio-cultural dynamics.
The birth of Terefech’s son shortly after marriage further complicated her life and severely limited her options. But in December 2022, everything changed for Terefech: she visited the local health post and met Nurit Mohammed, a dedicated health counselor trained in the Counseling for Choice (C4C) method. C4C’s client-centered approach provides comprehensive information about contraceptive methods and empowers women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
During their conversation, Nurit Terefech talked about various contraceptive options. After thoughtful discussion, Terefech chose the Jadelle implant, a five-year contraceptive method that allows her to take control of her reproductive health and focus on other aspects of her life.
Once her family planning was complete, Terefech focused on improving her living conditions. Her dedication and hard work led to the construction of a new home that provided safety and stability for her family. This achievement improved her quality of life and symbolized hope and potential for others in her community.
Terefech’s transformation has inspired many young girls in Fudale Kebele. She has emerged as a strong advocate for all who face similar challenges. Her journey from economic hardship and academic setbacks to building a new home and planning to continue her education epitomizes resilience.
“Before I met Nurit Mohammed at the health center in Fudale, I was struggling with economic hardships, had to get married early, and dropped out of school,” Terefech recalls. “Thanks to the advice she gave me, I was able to get my life under control. I have built a new house and plan to continue my education. My story has inspired many young girls in Fudale Kebele to believe in their potential and strive for a better future.”
Her experience underlines the importance of accessible reproductive health services and education for young women in rural Ethiopia. By sharing her story, Terefech advocates for women’s empowerment and emphasizes the critical role reproductive health services play in achieving personal and community goals.
“Terefech’s story is truly inspiring,” said Nurit Mohammed. “She overcame great economic hardships that forced her to leave her education early and marry young, showing incredible resilience. After receiving counseling at our health center and deciding to get the Jadelle implant, she changed her life. She has built a new house and is determined to return to school. Her success has made her a role model for many young girls in our Kebele.”
Terefech’s experience shows the profound impact that accessible reproductive health care can have on young women and their communities. Through her journey, she has demonstrated that young married girls and women in rural areas can overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and inspire others to do the same with the right support and opportunities.
The goal is to empower more young women like Terefech to overcome adversity, realize their dreams, and bring about positive change in their communities.
