5 African countries with the highest rate of child marriage
Child marriage is a major problem in many parts of the world, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, and this comes despite efforts to stop it as many young girls are still married before they become adults.
According to UNICEF, child marriage remains very high in several African countries. While some African countries have laws against child marriage, cultural traditions, poverty, and weak enforcement continue to allow the practice to persist.
To end child marriage in Sub-Saharan Africa, there needs to be a comprehensive effort that includes education, economic support, stronger laws, and changing societal views about girls and women.
Here are the top five countries in Africa with the highest rates of child marriage, where children, particularly girls, are often allowed to marry early.
Mozambique (53%)
Mozambique has 53% of women aged 20-24 married before the age of 18. While the country has made progress in improving education for girls and gender equality, child marriage is still a serious problem, especially in rural areas. Poverty and lack of education are major factors keeping the practice alive.
Mali (54%)
In Mali, 54% of women aged 20-24 were married before they turned 18. Mali has one of the highest rates of child marriage in West Africa. The main causes are cultural practices, economic struggles, and limited access to education. Although child marriage is illegal, it still happens a lot, especially in rural areas where traditional customs are strong.
Central African Republic (61%)
In the Central African Republic, 61% of women in the 20-24 age group were married before 18. The ongoing conflict and instability in the country have increased child marriage, as families marry off daughters to ensure their safety. While many countries have laws against child marriage, it continues to happen because of weak enforcement, especially in rural and conflict-affected areas.
Chad (61%)
Chad also has a high rate of child marriage, with 61% of women aged 20-24 married before their 18th birthday. Traditional customs and gender inequality are major factors, especially in rural areas. Girls are often seen as economic resources, and marriage is considered a way to protect their “honour.” Although laws against child marriage exist, enforcement is weak, and cultural attitudes make it difficult to bring about change.
Niger (76%)
Niger has the highest rate of child marriage in the world, with 76% of women aged 20-24 saying they were married or in a union before they turned 18. The high rate is mainly caused by cultural traditions, poverty, and limited education for girls. In Niger, child marriage is seen as a way to protect a girl’s future and ease the financial strain on families. However, this practice limits girls’ chances to get an education, access healthcare, and grow personally.
