Child Marriages: A Dual Pandemic in Zimbabwe's Rural and Farming Areas
In Zimbabwe's rural and farming areas, the prevalence of child marriages has become a concerning issue. This practice involves the union of children, mostly girls, before they reach the age of 18. Not only does child marriage violate the rights of these young individuals, but it also exacerbates the challenges already faced due to climate change. This piece aims to shed light on the real issues surrounding child marriages within the context of Zimbabwe's rural and farming areas. Zimbabwe, like many other developing countries, grapples with the adverse effects of climate change, leading to heightened vulnerability in rural and farming communities. Changes in weather patterns, such as prolonged droughts and flash floods, disrupt agricultural productivity, exacerbate poverty levels, and foster food insecurity. In such dire circumstances, child marriages often emerge as a coping strategy for families to alleviate economic strain and secure their livelihoods. Drivers of Child Marria