Zimbabwe: Community Leaders and Families Take Action in Luunga, Binga

As part of the 100 Days of Action to End Child Marriage, Quegas Mutale convened a community awareness meeting in Luunga Village, Binga District, Zimbabwe, on 24 December 2025. The event brought together 77 participants, including 24 women and girls and 53 men and boys, drawn from local leadership, faith institutions, schools, and families.

The programme focused on strengthening community responsibility in preventing child marriage and promoting child protection. Participants reflected on the factors contributing to early marriages in the area, particularly among learners of secondary school age. Conversations examined changing social influences, peer pressure, and the growing exposure of children to online content through mobile phones.

Our children can access inappropriate material through phones. Technology has benefits, but without guidance it can influence harmful behaviour

one traditional leader noted during the discussion.

Faith leaders and educators highlighted the need for stronger mentorship and structured guidance for young people. Tonga Mutale, Pastor of the Assemblies of God Church, committed to introducing peer education sessions within his congregation to help children prioritise education and personal development. Mr. Elijah Ndlovu, Deputy Head at Luunga Primary School, emphasised reinforcing guidance and counselling in schools to support learners in making informed decisions.

Community representatives also acknowledged the importance of reviewing certain cultural practices that may indirectly contribute to early unions. A village head from Luunga committed to convening follow up meetings and working toward community level measures that discourage child marriage.

Young people present at the meeting expressed their aspirations to continue with their education and seek advice from trusted adults when faced with challenges. One secondary school learner shared the intention to focus on academic achievement and long term goals rather than early marriage.

At the end of the event, participants collectively pledged to take active roles in safeguarding children. Commitments included creating safer spaces in churches and schools, engaging other community members in awareness efforts, and ensuring that no child is married before reaching adulthood.

The initiative was implemented in collaboration with leaders from the Roman Catholic Church, Assemblies of God Church, Baptist Church, and Babvubi Apostolic Sect. Partnerships also included Luunga Visionary Trust, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, and the Ministry of Health and Child Care.

Child marriage continues to affect many communities across Zimbabwe, driven by economic pressures, social norms, and limited access to opportunities. Community based engagements such as the Luunga meeting contribute to strengthening local accountability and reinforcing the protection of children’s rights.