Tanzania authorities rescue 10-year-old pupil from forced marriage

Government authorities in Tanzania's Same District have rescued a 10-year-old primary school pupil who was being forced into marriage with a 20-year-old man. The Standard Two pupil from Jiungeni Primary School was removed from her classes by relatives for the marriage, with the dowry details remaining undisclosed. The rescue followed an investigation launched by Same District Commissioner Kasilda Mgeni after the child's prolonged absence from school was reported. Officers found the minor living with the young man as husband and wife. Both were taken into custody and handed over to law enforcement. "The government strongly condemns this illegal act by relatives to marry off a 10-year-old child and deprive her of basic rights, including education and a safe environment," stated DC Kasilda. She urged residents to report similar incidents and warned parents involved in such practices, announcing a crackdown to identify all pupils withdrawn from school for forced marriages. The district commissioner stressed the government's commitment, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, to ensuring all school-age children receive an education and vowed firm action against parents who defy these directives. Local Councillor Yaigongo Mrutu confirmed the detention of those involved, describing the incident as shocking within the pastoralist community, emphasizing that a 10-year-old is far too young for marriage.

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The government strongly condemns this illegal act by relatives to marry off a 10-year-old child and deprive her of basic rights, including education and a safe environment.