Donga village gripped by early marriages
By Ibin Biyo Munsaka
Teenage girls in Donga village, Kaani in Ward 24 of Binga District are abandoning their education and entering marriages at an alarming rate, driven by a combination of poverty and social pressures.
A recent roundtable meeting held by Ward Councillor Kenneth Kapoka revealed the harsh realities these girls face.
One attendee, who wished to remain anonymous, shared how lack of basic necessities like underwear and school supplies forced her to drop out of school and marry young. However, her new life wasn’t the answer she’d hoped for, as she faced mistreatment from her in-laws due to her young age. Yet, a glimmer of hope emerged when she expressed a desire to return to school if given the chance.
Another young participant, Visai Muleya, shared a similar story. Peer pressure and lack of basic supplies led her to get pregnant and married while still in Form 3. Visai, like the first girl, yearns to go back to school if given the opportunity.
The meeting also highlighted the role of hunger in this crisis.
Councillor Kapoka urged the community to take responsibility. “Parents need to listen to their daughters and address their needs,” he advised. “The whole village should work together to prevent these marriages and support the girls’ education.”
The story of Donga village is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by young girls in Zimbabwe. However, the community’s determination to work together to help these girls return to school offers hope for a brighter future.
