LONDON — Mozambique, which has one of the highest rates of child marriage in the world, unveiled a national plan on Monday to end the practice, which affects nearly half of the country ‘s girls.
“(This is) a cause for celebration, and should inspire our neighbours to do the same,” said Albino Francisco, coordinator of Girls Not Brides Mozambique, which helped the government draw up the strategy.
Although there has been a slight fall in the rate of child marriages in Mozambique, campaigners say population growth means the number of child brides has increased.
Mozambique has the world ‘s 10th-highest rate of child marriage – with 48% of girls wed by their 18th birthday, and 14% before they turn 15, according to UN children ‘s fund Unicef. The national strategy outlines eight pillars key to ending child marriage, including an awareness drive, improving girls ‘ access to education, sexual and reproductive health services, sex education and legal reforms, according to Girls Not Brides.
Early marriage not only deprives girls of education and opportunities, but increases the risk of death or serious childbirth injuries if they have babies before their bodies are ready for the task. Child brides are often disempowered and at greater risk of domestic and sexual violence and HIV, experts say. –
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
