Early and forced marriage is a criminal act punishable by the constitutional courts of law, but cultural adepts keep glorifying the vice.
Forcing girls into marriage and worst still at a tender age, to satisfy our thirst for wealth after a suitor or suitors offer large herds of cattle, tantamount to slave trade.
By definition, slave trade is the capturing, selling, and buying of persons. This ill trade existed throughout the world since ancient times and has been equally universal, though Africa still bears its brunt.
Apart from robbing the girl-child of parental comfort, forcing her into marriage not only infringes on the rights of choice but also denies girls education opportunities.
Forcing a girl-child into marriage just because someone has offered animals might leave the families in a total loss like what happened in one of the states. In the regrettable episode, the dowry was raided soon after delivery to the bride’s family and the girl, days later on, committed suicide as she didn’t love the groom.
Early marriages further subject girls to risks, especially during childbirth which comes with complications due to undeveloped body systems. Under unfortunate incidences, we end up losing our daughters forever.
Yes, giving a girl off, for marriage at a certain age and to a suitor of the parents’ choice is a cultural norm but this needs to be aligned with the Constitution. The girl has to attain the required age and the marriage process is done with her consent.
Meanwhile, Kudos to Vice President, Taban Deng Gai for chipping in such a critical issue, in the community.
Respecting the constitutional rights and freedom of the girl-child is the ideal but practically achieving it, calls for continuous awareness.
For a long, Vice President for Youth and Gender, Rebecca Nyandeng has been the sole advocate for the rights of girls and children, among the top leadership. This could be due to her portfolio but to have gender-balanced voices boosts the campaign.
However, the burden of the girl-child rights advocacy must not only be left upon two but in the checklist of every political, religious and cultural leader, during a public address.
Like planting a seed, the advocacy may not yield fruits soon but with consistency and persistent awareness, the community will one day “see the light”, heed.