Young mothers in Epworth Rockdale Park are regretting getting married early as the marriages turns out to be sour. On the 19th of July 2021 young mothers of the ages of 17,18 and 20 shared their experiences as young mothers who are denied to go to work by their husbands.
In a conversation with young mothers they argued that getting married early you automatically become some’s puppet, ” kana wakaroorwa uri mwana mudiki unongoitiswa” (men take control over women who get married at an early age).
The young mothers are facing similar challenges in marriages, from the conversation with them it turns out that young mothers are denied to go to work by their husbands because the husbands are are afraid of losing their partners if they become financially independent.
One of the ladies said that”haubvumidzwe kuitawo zvinokupa mari yaunoti yako” (you are not allowed to do anything that generates income). Early marriages denies girls their rights to make virtual decisions, forces them out of education and into a life of poor prospect. Meanwhile early marriages increased the risk of violence, abuse and affected thier health.
Husbands must understand that if they allow their partners to pursue professions of thoer choice, it will be good for them as they will be helping each as a family, this was concluded from the perceptions of women.
Therefore there is need for organizations that works with young women and girls to stand up and advocate for these young mothers. Lastly, the young mothers after the discussion got the chance of getting contacts and handles of organizations that deal with young women and girls so that they can get help.
By Melody Gwanunga