The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC) has issued a stark warning that millions of girls across Africa continue to face the threat of child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM), despite widespread legal bans. The committee highlighted that existing laws are frequently poorly enforced, with implementation varying significantly across regions, and survivors encountering substantial obstacles in accessing justice and support services.
Call for Urgent Action
The ACERWC urged governments to urgently address protection gaps by bridging the divide between legal commitments and the harsh realities faced by girls on the continent. This call was made in a new report that draws on case studies from ten countries, including Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Egypt, Malawi, Mali, Somalia, Sudan, and Zimbabwe.
Persistent Harmful Practices
The thematic report on harmful practices affecting children in Africa reveals that despite progress in strengthening legal frameworks and political commitments, harmful practices remain deeply entrenched. According to the experts, climate shocks, conflict, and economic instability are exacerbating the drivers of child marriage and FGM, weakening already fragile systems, and increasing risks for girls, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas where access to services is limited and social pressures are stronger.
Underreporting and Stigma
The committee pointed out that many cases go unreported due to stigma, fear of retaliation, and limited support services. Sally Ncube, Equality Now’s Regional Representative for Southern Africa, stated: “Failure of implementation and enforcement of the law to protect children from harmful practices is not a failure of the law alone. It is a failure of the ecosystem that should make the law to protect and support children.”
Legal Gaps and Recommendations
The report noted that less than half of African countries set the minimum marriage age at 18 without exception, leaving legal gaps that allow child marriage under parental consent, judicial approval, or customary and religious law. Many countries also lack comprehensive legislation addressing prevention, access to justice, and survivors’ rights. Hermine Kembo Takam Gatsing, Special Rapporteur on Child Marriage and Other Harmful Practices at ACERWC, remarked: “The study illustrates that change is possible and indeed already taking place. Progress is achievable when legislation is complemented by implementation and coordination among relevant stakeholders and the promotion within the community.”
