PETER SICHALI writes
@SunZambian
MUCHINGA Province Minister Malozo Sichone has praised Chief Muyombe of Mafinga district for the role he is playing in promoting rights and welfare of women and children in his chiefdom.
Mr Sichone said government was inspired by the routine sensitization programme that the traditional leader has continued to carry out in his chiefdom with regards to gender equality, human rights and child marriages among others.
The minister said it was gratifying to note that Chief Muyombe had tackled ills such as child marriages in Kapela,Chizila Zumbe, Katanga and Vilulu villages.
“In this regard Your Royal Highness you are encouraged to continue with the frantic efforts to promote the rights and welfare of women and children in your Chiefdom,” Mr Sichone said.
Meanwhile, Muchinga province permanent secretary Joyce Nsamba has advised parents and guardians in Mafinga against marrying off children at a tender age.
Ms Nsamba said she was saddened to see most young girls in the area carrying children when they should have been in school.
She said child marriages had adverse effects on the life of children and should not be condoned.
“I would like to warn my fellow parents and guardians to please desist from marrying off girl children at a tender age,
“These children that you are marrying off are future leaders and should be encouraged to get education,” Ms Nsamba said.
Ms Nsamba said community leaders should rise against children marriages and other social ills that were retrogressive to the welfare of the girl-child and development.