The NGO Coalition on Child Rights (NGO CCR) has applauded Inkosi ya Makhosi M’mbelwa V of Mzimba for acting swiftly against his subject for violating rights of a girl child.

On Tuesday, Inkosi ya Makhosi M`mbelwa dethroned Group Village Headman (GVH) German Mahowe over reports that he married a 17-year old girl.

“It has transpired that GVH Mahowe had married a 17-year old, contrary to our ideals aimed at promoting the welfare of girls in our kingdom.

“Today we have traditionally terminated the services of GVH Mahowe, aged 42 years, within our jurisdiction of Inkosi ya Makhosi M`mbelwa for violating the rights of a girl child,” wrote Inkosi ya Makhosi M`mbelwa V on his Facebook post.

In an interview, NGO CCR National Coordinator Henry Machemba said it is high time that those in authority are exemplary towards the protection of child rights in the country.

“This is a good news from the traditional leadership,” said Machemba.

He has however demanded further action by the law enforcers on the dethroned GVH.

“We look forward to more action, much as the Chief has been dethroned from his chieftaincy we expect the law enforcers to take matter up, we expect the Chief to be arrested,” said Machemba.

Cases of child marriages and girls being impregnated have been on the rise in the country amid closure of schools due to COVID-19 pandemic.