Online Reporter
Fungai Lupande
Mashonaland Central Bureau
CHIEF NEGOMO has urged parents and guardians to allow girls to enjoy their childhood and desist from pushing them into marriages.
The chief, who was represented by his messenger Mr Daniel Chigwada, said this to approximately 120 village heads under his jurisdiction, who converged at his traditional court on Friday for a sensitisation meeting on the “Not In My Village” campaign.
Chief Negomo has adopted an “Enough is enough” stance on child marriages within his jusrisdiction, which aligns with the “Not In My Village” campaign that encourages communities to reject child marriages and commit to safeguarding every child.
“Childhood should be a time for learning, play and nurturing, not for marriage,” said Chief Negomo.
He said child marriage often deepens poverty, not only for the girls involved, but also for their families, severing future opportunities for economic independence and empowerment.
Chief Negomo said the influx of artisanal miners had added a new dimension to this issue, as some girls were lured into early unions by money or material gain.
He highlighted that weak parenting and broken homes had increased children’s vulnerability, exposing them to exploitation.
“The effects of child marriage are far-reaching and often irreversible,” Chief Negomo said.
“Girls are deprived of their education and childhood, forced to take on adult responsibilities before they are emotionally or physically ready,” he said.
Meanwhile, community members under Chief Negomo’s jurisdiction have united against child marriages and are working closely with the police by providing tips and information.
Recently, a Form Four student from Shingirirai Secondary School in Mazowe, who was on the Camfed bursary, eloped and was taken to Rafingora.
The matter came to light thanks to vigilant neighbours, and the girl was rescued and able to resume her education.
Assistant Inspector Revai Chimende said ignorance of the law is no defense.
She expressed gratitude that the “Not In My Village” campaign has garnered community support.
“We are on the ground and receiving tip-offs from community members. Section 3 of the Marriage Act prohibits the marriage of children under the age of 18,” she said.
“Anyone participating in the marriage ceremony will be arrested. A child belongs to the community, and cases of child marriage cannot occur in our villages.”
Approximately 120 village heads under Chief Negomo gathered at the chief’s court in Chiweshe for a sensitisation meeting.
Agnes Kamudyariwa, the provincial facilitator for the Young People’s Network, expressed her delight as the “Not In My Village” campaign spreads rapidly across Mazowe.
She said while 36,6 percent of girls nationwide were affected by child marriage, the figure was significantly higher in Mashonaland Central Province, where 49,5 percent of young girls were victims of this practice.
