Faith-based schools and organisations sensitise children and communities to end child marriage

Child marriage happens in almost every country in the world, and across many religions, cultures, and ethnicities. Faith-based organisations and religious leaders are one particular set of vital allies in the fight to end child marriage, as they often have a strong influence on their communities. Religious leaders in particular are critical, as they can directly prevent child marriages from happening if they have been asked to conduct a marriage ceremony involving children.

Several faith-based organisations participated in the campaign in a variety of countries, and many NGOs which coordinated collaborative events ensured faith-based organisations were part of their activities.

In Ghana, Concerned Heart Foundation held a lesson on child marriage at Mafi Adiekpe Roman Catholic Basic School on 4th December (main image). Fifty children took part in the lesson, and pledged to stay in school and prevent child marriage in their community.

In Cameroon, Survivors' Network focused its activities in a Presbyterian Christian community in the country's Eastern Region.

In Zambia, faith-based organisations attended a stakeholder engagement meeting, at the start of a week-long series of events led by the Phoenix Foundation.

In Uganda, Desk of Hope International Ministries engaged 500 people during its campaign event in Rukungiri, and raised further awareness in the wider community by participating in an interview with the local radio station.

In 2025, the global campaign aims to work in more depth with faith leaders around the world to combat child marriage.