Ending child marriages a must - Lungu

By Staff Reporter, LUSAKA 

President Edgar Lungu has reiterated that child marriages must come to an end. 

Speaking when he officially opened the first AU African Girl Summit in Lusaka yesterday at New Government Complex, the Head of State said child marriages pose a greater challenge in Zambia just like other African Union member states. 

President Lungu added that Zambia and Africa as whole must fight child marriages so as to create an ideal and safe environment for all children. 

The President further said government is working tirelessly to ensuring that child marriages are eradicated completely. 

“So far, the prevalence has reduced from 42 percent to 32 percent; let us join hands together and end the scourge,” he said. 

Zambia is the first country to host African Girls’ summit on ending child marriage in Africa. 

And gracing the same event, Youth, Sport and Child Development Minister Vincent Mwale lamented that at least 30% of girls are married off by the age of 18. 

In a speech, Mr. Mwale attributed child marriages to Gender inequality, poverty, tradition and culture. 

And Minister of Gender Nkandu Luo said there is need for everyone's participation and commitment to curb child marriages. 

Professor Luo said Zambia is not spared, it is among other countries that are struggling with issues of child marriages. 

Meanwhile, AU chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma said child marriage interrupts the education of girls and undermines their chance to develop. 

Speaking through teleconference Dr. Zuma added child marriages take away girls chance to develop and get empowered. 

“Children’s rights should be respected. The future of our children must be protected because they are our assets for our development,” she said.