Aweil Women's Leader Pledges Fight Against Forced, Early Marriages

The newly elected chairperson of the women’s association in Aweil Centre County, Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, has pledged to campaign against forced and early marriages and gender-based violence. Abuk Aziber Andal was elected on Wednesday during polls organised by the Northern Bahr el Ghazal State General Women’s Association. Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Thursday, Andal said girls should be encouraged to remain in school, including those who become pregnant. “I do not agree with forced and early marriages. I prefer all girls to continue with their education,” she said. She urged parents not to force girls into marriage after pregnancy or during difficult economic circumstances. “It is better for her to continue with her education because she will bring more resources in the future,” she said. Andal also linked tensions between couples to poverty and difficulties in meeting daily household needs, including food. Aweil-based activist Angelina Agau Thiep said forced and early marriages are increasing across Northern Bahr el Ghazal, partly because of worsening economic conditions. She said poverty and a lack of food could leave young people vulnerable to unwanted pregnancies and early marriage. “Due to the lack of meals at home, girls and boys walk the streets and unwanted pregnancies can happen, resulting in early and forced marriages,” Thiep said.