Civil society organizations in Tanzania have united to call for urgent government action against child marriage and sexual violence, emphasizing the need for safe and equitable environments for girls. This appeal was made during a recent consultation meeting organized by the Children’s Dignity Forum (CDF) in collaboration with the Tanzania Women Lawyers Association (TAWLA).
Key Takeaways
- Over 45 stakeholders participated in the consultation meeting.
- The focus was on legal and policy reforms, including amendments to the Law of Marriage Act.
- Emphasis on the importance of re-entry programs for girls returning to school.
- Recognition of the ongoing challenges in implementing these policies.
The Call to Action
Mr. Koshuma Mtengeti, Executive Director of CDF, highlighted the critical need for the government to create safe environments that uphold the rights of all children, particularly girls. He stated that child marriage and sexual violence not only violate fundamental rights but also hinder community development.
Mtengeti urged the government to enforce strict laws against child marriage and to empower girls to return to school, thereby breaking the cycles of abuse and poverty that often accompany these practices.
Addressing Cultural Barriers
The meeting also addressed the harmful cultural practices that continue to impede girls’ development, particularly in accessing education. Mtengeti pointed out that despite some successes in regions where local authorities and community members support girls’ education, resistance remains prevalent in other areas due to entrenched societal norms.
Challenges in Re-Entry Policies
The discussion included a focus on the re-entry policy for girls who have left school due to child marriage or related issues. Mtengeti noted several challenges in its implementation:
- Lack of facilities to support girls’ return to school.
- Unprepared teachers who may not know how to handle returning students.
- Community resistance to girls re-entering the educational system.
He emphasized that while some regions have seen positive outcomes, bullying and discrimination against returning girls often force them to leave school again.
Community Support is Essential
Ms. Rose Elisante from HakiElimu echoed the call for community support in helping girls return to school. She stressed that discrimination against these girls not only hinders their educational progress but also denies them their fundamental right to education.
The collective message from the NGOs is clear: without concerted efforts from the government and communities, the cycle of child marriage and its associated challenges will continue to undermine the potential of young girls in Tanzania.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to work together towards creating a safer and more equitable environment for girls, ensuring that they can pursue their education free from fear and violence.
Sources
- NGOs call for action against child marriage – Daily News, Daily News Tanzania.
