Each day, approximately 41,000 girls worldwide, become brides before reaching the age of 18, entering into child marriage. Every such marriage results in a girl losing her freedom, childhood and any chance for autonomy. These girls are more than 50% more likely to face sexual or physical harm. Girls Not Brides, a female-led NGO, directs its efforts toward ending gender-based violence and child marriage in South Africa and globally.

Women Leading Change

Men often dominate public discourse, making it notable when women lead the charge for change. Such was the case in South Africa in November 2023, when female philanthropists, activists and leaders convened to strategize support for adolescent girls, with a focus on eradicating child marriage.

Prominent among the attendees were Mrs. Michelle Obama and Ms. Melinda Gates. Mrs. Obama, the former First Lady of the United States (U.S.), underscored the critical role of education for young girls in breaking the cycle of child marriage and called for sustained investment in grassroots organizations and leadership. Ms. Gates advocated for a comprehensive approach that includes policy and legal reforms. She emphasized the importance of community awareness supported by government action to empower girls with choices over their futures. Both women, celebrated authors and influential figures, alongside other local dignitaries, issued a call to action against child marriage.

Benefits of Ending Child Marriage

Ending child marriage in South Africa and globally, brings a multitude of benefits that span social, economic and health dimensions. By addressing this issue, South Africa could unlock the potential for individual growth, societal advancement and economic development. Notable sources, including the United Nations (U.N.), World Bank and various NGOs, have highlighted these benefits in their research and advocacy efforts.

According to UNICEF, by delaying marriage, girls are less likely to face early pregnancy, which is associated with higher risks of maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity and more likely to stay in school and complete their education. Education equips girls with the knowledge and skills necessary to support themselves, fully participate in their communities and make informed decisions about their lives and health, setting a foundation for improved health outcomes both for themselves and their future children.

Furthermore, the World Bank indicates that eliminating child marriage could significantly boost economic growth and productivity by enhancing a country’s earnings and growth potential. In fact, educated and empowered women are more likely to enter the workforce and contribute positively to the national economy.

Economic Implications

Eradicating child marriage has positive ripple effects on the economy, including a reduction in birth rates that alters a population’s age structure, thereby enhancing what is known as the ‘demographic dividend.’ This term refers to the economic growth potential when a larger portion of the population is of working age. It boosts health, productivity and the overall economy. The effect on productivity is particularly significant.

Child marriage sidelines girls, excluding them from the workforce and depriving economies of half their potential labor force, presenting a substantial obstacle to development. The World Bank estimates that countries lose on average about 1% of their economic base due to child marriage.

The Role of Girls Not Brides

Girls Not Brides is a global network dedicated to ending child marriage, focusing on girls as central to the solution. The organization collaborates with communities, local governments and faith leaders, emphasizing that only a collective effort can eliminate the outdated stigma of girls being inferior and end the practice of child marriage as a means of connecting families and kin.

This strategy aims to end the treatment of girls as currency and sees empowering them as a way out of poverty. By mobilizing young girls and improving their access to education and sexual health care, Girls Not Brides helps lift nations out of poverty.

Empowering the Future

The global fight against child marriage, led by influential women and organizations like Girls Not Brides, is carving a path toward empowerment and equality for girls in South Africa and beyond. By fostering education and legal reforms, these efforts are unlocking the vast potential for personal and economic growth, setting a precedent for future generations.

The collective drive and dedication to ending child marriage reflect a powerful commitment to reshaping society for the better, ensuring every girl has the opportunity to control her destiny and contribute fully to her community.

– Isaac Rowlands
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