This archive report was first published on 19 August 2021.
Tana teen wives stuck in poverty ¶
Published on August 19, 2021
Early marriages in Tana River County have led to a life of poverty and misery for many young girls, who are forced to drop out of school and live in difficult circumstances.
According to a Unicef report, some 23 percent of Kenyan girls are married before they turn 18 years old, with the Orma, Wardei, Watta, Ilwana, Wardei, and Pokomo communities in Tana River County leading in the number of early marriages.
Mwanatumu Hassan, 19, from Ovo village, Tana River County, is one of the many young girls who were forced into early marriage. She was just 15 years old when her parents arranged her marriage to a 21-year-old man, who was her boyfriend at the time.
"I was just 15 years old and in Standard Seven. My elder sister had become pregnant for her college boyfriend and my parents insisted that a traditional engagement and marriage ceremony be conducted so that her child could be born in wedlock," Hassan narrated.
However, Hassan's marriage turned out to be a nightmare. Her husband was abusive and did not care how they fed the children or paid for their education. The couple relies on relief food from donors and humanitarian organisations to survive.
"Sometimes when I get money, I can't even get myself a dress. I have to choose between getting myself clothes and getting my children food and clothes," Hassan said.
Another young girl, Hawaa Salim, 19, from Hamesa village, has also endured her share in marriage for the last five years. She was married to a livestock broker at 14 and hoped for beautiful days in life coupled with romance and day-to-day smiles.
However, Salim's marriage turned out to be a bitter experience. Her husband does not find her attractive anymore and has no time for them. The couple relies on relief food from donors and humanitarian organisations to survive.
"Marriage requires a deeper understanding. It is more than glamorous weddings and a handsome man," Salim said.
Tana River County Commissioner Mbogai Rioba noted that most parents have neglected their responsibilities to their children, allowing girls to practise adult activities.
"A parent sees her daughter with a phone, flashy clothes. At times the girl even brings home shopping, but she does not follow up where all these things come from," Rioba said.
