Empowering girls to end child marriage and gender-based violence in Mozambique

In Manhica, Mozambique, girls' clubs set up in schools are helping young girls understand how child marriage and violence are linked. The clubs were set up by Cheltania, a youth activist, and Hortencia, a school matron, to enable children say no to child marriage and stay in school. They are teaching girls to recognise and confront gender-based violence and understand why it violates their rights.

Since the clubs started, more girls are staying in school and out of marriage. Parents are also supportive, having seen an improvement in both their children’s behaviour and school performance. Cheltania and Hortencia are now hoping to expand the clubs throughout Manhica and continue to raise awareness about child marriage and other forms of gender-based violence.