Malawi Steps Up Efforts to End Child Marriages by 2030

The Government of Malawi has shown strong commitment to ending child marriages, It plans to reduce the current rate of 37 percent by at least 20 percent by the year 2030. This effort is part of the country’s goal to promote gender equality and make sure girls and women have the same opportunities as boys and men in education, work, and leadership.

Deputy Director for Child Affairs in the Ministry of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, Justin Hamela, said this in Mzuzu during a meeting with councils from the Northern Region. The meeting aimed to find lasting solutions to challenges caused by child marriages.

Hamela said protecting children from early and forced marriages is key to achieving the goals of Malawi 2063, the country’s long-term development plan. He added that helping girls stay in school will help reduce poverty and promote national development.

“When girls are protected and given a chance to finish school, the whole nation benefits. We are not just stopping early marriages—we are building future leaders, teachers, doctors, and innovators who will help Malawi grow,” said Hamela.

Jenipher Mkandawire, Coordinator for Girls Not Brides Malawi and Executive Director of Foundations for Children’s Rights, encouraged girls to work hard in school and never give up, no matter the challenges. She said education is the best tool for girls to achieve their dreams and become responsible citizens.

“Girls should believe in themselves and aim high. Education is their key to success and freedom from early marriage,” said Mkandawire.

Fiddes Msowoya, Director of Education and Sports at Rumphi District Council, praised the government for introducing free secondary school education. He said this will help many poor girls continue their studies instead of getting married early because of poverty.

“Free secondary education gives hope to many girls. It helps them stay in school and build a better future,” Msowoya said.

According to global reports, every minute 23 young girls are married, which means 12 million girls get married each year before turning 18. Experts say that without strong action to fight poverty, harmful traditions, and lack of education, many more girls will lose their childhood and future.

With these new efforts, the government and its partners hope to create a Malawi where every girl—can grow, learn, and reach their full potential.