Youth Response for Social Change, a non-governmental organization, has successfully nullified 320 child marriages in six traditional authorities across Machinga District between 2021 and 2024. This initiative aims to protect young girls from sexual abuse and other gender-based violence often associated with child marriages.

Triza Nyirenda, the organization’s Communication Coordinator, explained that these efforts are part of the “Social Transformation for Ending Child Marriages” project, funded by USAID and implemented in Machinga’s traditional authorities, including Nyambi, Mizinga, Chikweo, Mchinguza, and Paramount Chief Kawinga’s area. Out of the 320 girls whose marriages were nullified, 65 have been directed toward vocational training programs, while the remainder have returned to school.

Nyirenda emphasized the need for ongoing support, urging the government and other organizations to partner in eradicating child marriages and ensuring that girls can continue their education. She added that providing returning students with educational materials would help them focus on their studies and ease the transition back to school.

Inspector Masautso Katemera, Community Policing Coordinator at Machinga Police Station, acknowledged that child marriage remains a significant challenge in Machinga due to poverty and traditional practices. He commended Youth Response for Social Change for leading efforts to end child marriages and reiterated the police’s commitment to educating communities on the harmful impact of child marriage.