The Mamprugu Moagduri District in the North East Region of Ghana is witnessing a disturbing trend of child marriages, which is negatively impacting girl-child education. Across the district’s 48 schools, there has been a steady decline in school enrolment, particularly among girls.
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The Impact of Child Marriages on Education
Research conducted by Afrikids Ghana highlighted alarming statistics: in just 20 targeted schools, at least 30 cases of child marriage were recorded within a single month. In some communities, such as Kunkwa and Katigri, it is not uncommon for five to eight girls to marry within the same month, as this practice is deeply rooted in local norms.
However, Afrikids Ghana’s One Million Smiles Program, through community sensitisation and mentorship for girls, has begun to reverse this troubling trend. Yet, much more is needed to make a significant impact.
Rising Health Risks for Adolescents
The health directorate’s data paints a grim picture, with the number of adolescents attending antenatal care services rising toward 15%, a concerning figure that continues to climb. Many of these young girls are even travelling outside the district for care. This highlights the growing danger posed by child marriages, with many girls becoming mothers before they are truly ready.
Afrikids Ghana’s Interventions
Currently, Afrikids Ghana is addressing six child marriage cases involving school pupils. So far, four of the victims have been successfully rescued, reunited with their families, and returned to school. These cases primarily involve girls at the primary and junior high school levels.
Mathew Abagna, the District Manager for Afrikids’ One Million Smiles Program, emphasised the significant barriers to girls’ education in the district, with forced marriages being the most prominent challenge. He stressed the need for intensified sensitisation efforts to change this damaging practice.
The Norm of KAYAYE and Child Labor
In addition to child marriage, another pervasive issue affecting school attendance is the migration of girls to southern Ghana for labour, commonly known as “KAYAYE.” Over 90% of school girls under the age of 18 are involved in this practice, further depriving them of their education. Mr Abagna revealed that both parents and teachers in the district are complicit in this issue, with 70% of children being taken to farms during school hours, leaving classrooms nearly empty.
Impact on Teaching and Learning
Julius Bernet Ofori, the Director of Education for the Mamprugu Moagduri District, confirmed Afrikids’ findings and shared the challenges this situation presents for education. “During school hours, especially in the farming season, many classrooms are almost empty because children are working on farms with their parents. We are doing our best, with other stakeholders, to address these challenges,” Mr. Ofori explained.
The Widespread Prevalence of Child Marriages in North East Region
Data from the Ghana Statistical Service reveals that the North East Region has the highest percentage of girls in a union, with 13%, more than twice the national average of 4%. The Savanna and Northern Regions follow with 10.9% and 10.6%, respectively. This starkly contrasts with the national trend, underscoring the need for urgent intervention in these areas.
UNICEF’s Findings and Global Efforts
Ending child marriage is a critical target of Sustainable Development Goal 5, and Ghana, like many countries, faces significant challenges in achieving this goal. According to UNICEF, Ghana is home to over two million child brides, including both current and former child brides. The data further reveals that girls from rural areas or poor households are at a higher risk of being married off early. More than nine in ten of these married girls are not attending school, significantly limiting their future opportunities.
A Call for Action
The increasing rate of child marriages and child labour in the Mamprugu Moagduri District highlights the urgent need for more focused efforts on the education and empowerment of girls. Afrikids Ghana’s intervention is a vital step, but continued support from both the local and national government, as well as civil society, is essential to combat these deeply rooted challenges and ensure that every girl in the district can receive an education, free from the threat of early marriage or exploitation.
