CHIEFS DRILLED ON ENDING CHILD MARRIAGES

By Kenson McCloud

Timveni Child and Youth Media Organization in partnership with Plan International Malawi has equipped fourteen traditional leaders from Mulanje district with skills to help in the fight against child marriages.

Through the 18-Plus Project, the chiefs had a learning visit in Machinga district where they shared notes with their counterparts under Senior Chief Liwonde. 

18-Plus Project Manager Memory Mbewe said Machinga district is a shining example in as far as Chiefs’ role is concerned in the fight against child marriages.

According to Mbewe, the ex-change visit was aimed at sharing efforts the local leaders are doing to keep children in school and end child marriages.

                                         Chief Liwonde: speaking to the audience                  

In his remarks, Group Village Headman Liwonde hailed Plan International Malawi for empowering chiefs in the fight against child marriages.

Group Village Headman Liwonde said since the “Yes I do” project was implemented there has been significant reduction in cases of child marriages.

On his part, Group Village head Ngumera under Traditional Authority Juma in Mulanje district hailed fellow chiefs in Machinga district for playing a big role in the quest of ending child marriages. 

Ngumera said the visit was worthwhile and asked for extension of the initiative to other areas to fight child marriages.