Child marriages are expected to be reduced in Thyolo and Phalombe following the introduction of Enabling Girls to Advance Gender Equity (ENGAGE) project in the two districts.

The project was launched in Thyolo on Saturday by Girls Empowerment Network (GENET) in conjunction with Rise Up and Youth net and Counseling (YONECO) with funding from Melinda and Bill Gates Foundation.

The project aims at encouraging girls to stay in school and addressing the issue of child marriages.

Speaking to YFM online Executive Director for GENET Faith Phiri said they would like to see girls stand up for themselves and defend their rights.

“We would like to see girls finish school and become responsible citizens and not rush into marriage,” Phiri said.

Thyolo District Council Director of Administration Elestina Mmame expressed gratitude for the introduction of the project which she said will help in reducing child marriages that are so common in the district.

“It is a pity to note that in every 10 women who are at the Thyolo District hospital waiting to deliver children 8 of them are girls less than 18 years,” Said Mmame.

The project will be implemented in the period of four years.