Dear JOhn,

Yesterday, the Tanzania Court of Appeal upheld the landmark 2016 ruling by the High Court against child marriage.

A landmark ruling demanding girls have equal protection under the law.

In 2016, Rebeca Gyumi, Director of our partner Msichana Initiative <[link removed]>, brought a case challenging the constitutionality of child marriage in Tanzania, and demanding the government give girls equal protection under the law.

The High Court ruled that marriage under the age of 18 was illegal and directed the government to raise the minimum age of marriage to 18 for both boys and girls within one year.

Why was this at the Court of Appeal?

The Attorney General of the State appealed against the 2016 ruling.

The State’s appeal was based on the claim that the disparity in the minimum age of marriage is a compromise to accommodate customary, traditional and religious values on marriage. We believe the right to culture and freedom of religion can not limit the fundamental right to equality and non-discrimination.

Yesterday morning the Court of Appeal upheld the 2016 ruling, sending a clear message.

Child marriage is a human rights violation, and the Government of Tanzania has a responsibility to protect girls. <[link removed]>

This is a victory for every single person around the world who raises their voice to end child marriage. That includes YOU!

End child marriage in Tanzania <[link removed]>

Thank you for your continued support for the rights of women and girls. 

In solidarity,

Jean Paul Murunga

Program Officer, End Harmful Practices

Donate <[link removed]>





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