Zambia Issues Strong Warning Against Child Marriages
The Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Ms Doreen Mwamba, has issued a stern warning, calling for the immediate cessation of child marriages in Zambia.
“No one will be married off before the age of 18 going forward,” Ms Mwamba cautioned during a meeting in Mpulungu with the Provincial Minister, Mr Leonard Mbao.
Currently on a tour of the province, the Minister expressed grave concern over the rising cases of child marriages, not only in Mpulungu but nationwide.
She emphasised that there would be no “sacred cows” in tackling the vice, warning that all those involved, whether directly or indirectly, would face the full force of the law, regardless of their social standing.
Ms Mwamba further reiterated the Government’s commitment to addressing the needs of the boy child through a “One Government” approach, working in collaboration with line ministries responsible for youth welfare, including boys’ affairs.
In response, Mr Mbao commended the Ministry for its sustained efforts, not only in combating harmful practices such as child marriage, but also in improving the living standards of citizens through various social protection programmes.
