The Tanzanian government has initiated consultations on proposed amendments to specific provisions of the Marriage Act, with a focus on education-related sections. The review aims to curb child marriage and protect girls' rights. Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, Dr. Juma Homera, stated that the consultations are centered on specific provisions linked to children's education, rather than a complete overhaul of the law. The review covers education from pre-primary and primary school through secondary education and Form Six.
Dr. Homera emphasized that the government cannot change all provisions of the Marriage Act, but is focusing on specific provisions that can be amended. He made these remarks during a special edition of the Sema na Waziri programme, which brought together government officials, development partners, and young women to discuss challenges affecting girls and measures to expand their opportunities. The programme aimed to address issues such as child marriage, education, and economic opportunities for girls.
The Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs assured that his ministry would continue working with Plan International Tanzania and other stakeholders to strengthen efforts aimed at protecting girls and enabling them to achieve their aspirations. He urged stakeholders to engage communities more closely to address gender-based violence and support girls facing economic hardship through initiatives that improve their access to economic opportunities. This collaboration aims to empower girls and create opportunities for them to realise their potential.
Plan International Tanzania Country Director, Ms. Jane Sembuche, highlighted that child marriage remains a significant challenge in Tanzania. According to data, 29.1 per cent of women aged between 20 and 24 who had married did so before reaching the age of 18. She emphasized that early marriage disrupts girls' education, exposes them to health risks, and limits their economic opportunities. Ms. Sembuche advocated for setting 18 years as the minimum age of marriage for all to support girls' education, health, and economic opportunities.
Plan International Tanzania Head of Policy, Strategy and Quality, Ms. Christina Ruhinda, stated that her organisation would continue collaborating with the ministry to ensure girls participate in programmes that equip them with knowledge on leadership, law, and their rights. This collaboration aims to empower girls and create opportunities for them to realise their potential. The organisation's efforts focus on supporting girls' education and leadership development.
Other stakeholders, including CAMFED Tanzania Executive Director, Ms. Anna Sawaki, welcomed the government's decision to begin consultations on the proposed amendments. She emphasized that coordinated action among stakeholders could help empower more girls through education and leadership opportunities. The Girls Takeover campaign, which allows girls to participate in leadership activities and build confidence, was also highlighted as a successful initiative.
Beneficiaries of the Girls Takeover programme, such as Veronica Kalenga and Jenipha Lucas, shared their experiences and the positive impact of the programme on their lives. Veronica Kalenga assumed the role of Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, gaining first-hand experience of government operations. Jenipha Lucas stated that the programme strengthened her confidence and understanding of leadership, encouraging her to continue efforts to tackle child marriage and teenage pregnancies, particularly in rural communities.
Key points
- The Tanzanian government is reviewing the Marriage Act to curb child marriage and protect girls' rights, with a focus on education-related sections.
- The review aims to support girls' education, health, and economic opportunities by setting 18 years as the minimum age of marriage for all.
- Stakeholders, including Plan International Tanzania and CAMFED Tanzania, are collaborating with the government to empower girls through education and leadership opportunities.
