President Hichilema Calls for Stronger Action to End Child Marriage in Africa
By Jotham Likomeno,
President Hakainde Hichilema has urged African leaders to intensify efforts to end child marriage, describing the practice as a grave human rights violation that continues to affect millions of children across the continent.
Speaking in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during the launch of the 2025 AU Champion’s Report on Ending Child Marriage and the Spotlight Initiative African Regional Programme, President Hichilema emphasized the need to address the root causes of the crisis in order to develop lasting and effective solutions.
As the African Union Champion on Ending Child Marriage, the Head of State noted that weak social protection systems and widespread poverty remain key drivers of the practice, often forcing vulnerable families to marry off their children despite understanding the harmful consequences.
President Hichilema also cautioned against the dangers of social media abuse, saying it exposes children to harmful influences and can further worsen the crisis.
He urged African leaders to prioritise stronger social protection measures, build resilient economies, and implement progressive laws and policies that protect children’s rights and safeguard their future.
