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Kinyarwanda
Police in Burera District have warned parents of the dire consequences of allowing or forcing under-aged children into marriage, adding that it's violation of children's right.
The call was made by Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP) Phelin Nshimyumukiza, the District Community Liaison Officer of Burera on September 18, while meeting women leaders of Bugarama and Cyanika sectors.
The meeting aimed at enlightening the leaders and elders on unlawful and harmful practices in families.
By law in Rwanda, girls are allowed to marry at the age of 21 and above. Under the law, perpetrators of child marriages are punishable with an imprisonment of about two years.
IP Nshimyumukiza observed that early pregnancies are also one of the most dangerous causes and consequences of child marriage.
Early marriages, he noted, are more likely to experience violence and domestic conflicts.
"Early marriage denies girls their right to make vital decisions about their sexual health and well-being. It denies them education and drive them into a life of poor prospects," the DCLO said.
She urged parents to put children in schools and seize the opportunities available for girl education.
De la CroixNsengiyumva, who is in charge of youth and culture in Burera, reiterated that education is “essential for girls to be able to make informed decisions about their well-being.”
