Malawi bans child marriage, lifts minimum age to 18

On February 16, 2015, Malawi made a historic move by passing a law that bans child marriage and raises the minimum age for marriage to 18. This landmark legislation is a crucial step towards safeguarding the rights of children, particularly young girls, who have been disproportionately affected by the practice of child marriage. In Malawi, child marriage has been a widespread issue, with many girls being coerced into marriage at a tender age, often resulting in interrupted education and limited future opportunities. The new law aims to empower children by allowing them to complete their education and pursue better prospects in life. By establishing a legal framework that protects children from early marriage, Malawi is taking significant strides towards gender equality and the protection of children's rights. This legislation not only reflects a commitment to improving the lives of young girls but also aligns with global efforts to end child marriage and promote education for all children. The implementation of this law is expected to have a positive impact on the health, education, and economic status of future generations in Malawi.