Speaking during Independence Day celebrations in Murambinda, President Emmerson Mnangagwa cautioned against the marriage of underage girls, emphasizing severe consequences for perpetrators of pedophilia.

Mnangagwa’s warning coincides with a surge in incidents of early child marriages and rape.

In a recent case, numerous women and minors were rescued from an apostolic sect led by Ishmael Chokurongerwa in Nyabira, following reports of abuse. Chokurongerwa is currently incarcerated for various criminal offenses, including the abuse of minors.

Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of women and children in society, stating, “The safety and security of our women and children are crucial to the well-being of our society. All forms of violence against women and children are unacceptable.”

Under the new Marriages Act, severe penalties await those involved in arranging child marriages or pledging children for marriage.

The Act prohibits child marriages, stating that individuals under the age of 18 cannot enter into marriage or civil partnerships. Offenders may face imprisonment for up to five years.

Despite legal measures, poverty and religious beliefs continue to push many young girls into premature motherhood and early marriages.

According to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), the preliminary 2022 census report on fertility revealed that 133,455 women aged 20 to 24, accounting for 16.2 percent of the total, were married before turning 18. Rural areas had a higher proportion at 22.7 percent compared to urban areas at 7.2 percent.

President Mnangagwa stressed the importance of shielding the girl child from regressive customs and practices, urging collective efforts to protect children from harm.