Early marriages on the increase in Chipinge

Luthando Mapepa
THE Ministry of Women Affairs, Gender and Community Development is concerned by the alarming rate of early child marriages in Manicaland.

This was revealed by the ministry’s provincial development officer, Ms Chido Madiwa during commemorations of the 16 days of activism against gender based violence(GBV) held at Chisumbanje Primary School in Chipinge South.

This year commemorations were held under the theme “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the Community”.

Addressing villagers and various stakeholders, Ms Madiwa said government is taking steps to reduce rape cases and early marriages prevalent in some remote parts of the province.

“Factors such as drought, cultural and religious beliefs are some of the reasons why Manicaland province is recording high cases of early child marriages. We are going to reach out to the community and educate people to shun early marriages.

“The Government is committed to end child marriages in line with Section 26 and 28 of the new constitution. Child marriage is like raping and if you marry young girls you will be incarcerated,” said Ms Madiwa.

Member of Parliament for Chipinge South Cde Enoch Porusingazi urged the community to shun cases related to GBV so that Government resources will be used for other development purposes.

“GBV is increasing in the province instead of decreasing. I urge you to refrain from GBV so that the country’s resources will be used for development instead of assessing medical treatment caused by GBV.,” he said.