STRENGTHENING COLLECTIVE ACTION TO END CHILD MARRIAGE IN UGANDA.

The fight against child marriage requires a united commitment to protecting girls’ rights and creating opportunities for them to achieve their full potential. On 17th June, stakeholders from across Uganda convened for the National Stakeholder Meeting on Ending Child Marriage reaffirming the urgency of addressing a challenge that continues to affect the lives and futures of many girls despite ongoing efforts to combat it.

Hosted by The Center for Domestic Violence Prevention (CEDOVIP) and Joy For Children at UNICEF Uganda, the meeting brought together Members of Parliament, government agencies, civil society organizations, religious leaders, advocates and young people to discuss progress and strengthen the implementation of Uganda’s National Strategy to End Child Marriage and Teenage Pregnancy and we were represented by Pillar Mbabazi who joined fellow partners including Girls First Fund grantees in contributing to discussions aimed at advancing coordinated action and accountability. A key highlight of the engagement was the active participation of young people whose experiences and recommendations enriched conversations on effective and sustainable solutions.

Members emphasized that ending child marriage requires sustained investment in girls’ education, protection, empowerment and wellbeing. The meeting also reinforced the principle that meaningful change can only be achieved when young people are actively involved in shaping the policies and interventions that affect their lives. As partners and advocates continue to work together as the collective goal remains clear, to build a future where every girl is free from harmful practices and has the opportunity to learn, thrive and pursue her aspirations without limitation.

Compiled By: Dorah Kamwine.