Youth Parliament bemoans early marriages, child labour
Chikhwawa Youth Parliament has asked Malawi government to intervene in addressing the issue of early marriages and child labour that affect their education.
The youth parliamentarians said this on Friday during the closure of a three-day sitting in the district.
During their deliberations, the youth cited early marriages and child labour as key issues that lead to an increase in school dropouts.
In response, Paramount Chief Lundu, who was the guest of honour, said the two issues not only affect the district, but the nation.
“These two issues need concerted efforts since they concern all youths in the country.
“Forcing children to sell thobwa [sweet beer], soft drinks affects their education. Government needs to sensitise parents to the dangers of using them to sell merchandise during school time,” said Lundu.
Chikhwawa district social welfare officer Rosemary Mahata said her office, together with the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP), has sent back to school five girls who were involved in early marriages.
She said they are implementing Strengthening and Protection of Child Rights Structures Project, funded by Plan Malawi.
“Through this project, we are conducting sensitisation campaigns and so far, we have managed to retain back five girls,” she said.
