Selmor Mtukudzi Speaks Out On Child Marriages
Award-winning musician Selmor Mtukudzi has called for an end to child marriages which are on the increase in Zimbabwe.
Mtukudzi made the call on Monday while speaking during an indaba ahead of celebrations of the Day of the African Child on 16 June.
Mtukudzi, who is a mother, called upon parents to desist from chasing away their young daughters when they fall pregnant. She said:
As mothers, we should learn to forgive our own daughters and try by all means to take care of the mother and baby.
Protect your own than pushing them into situations that will harm them.
Mtukudzi also urged young boys to abstain from sexual activities, or use contraceptives, rather than end up deserting young girls they impregnate. She added:
Why do you do the act (sleeping with young girls) when you know you can’t take the responsibility? Men, you should be responsible for your acts.
Mtukudzi has worked with different artists, the likes of Yemi Alade, Victoria Kiman, among others, in fighting child marriages.
Mtukudzi, who is a daughter and daughter-in-law to late music legends Oliver Mtukudzi and Zex Manatsa respectively, has also been engaging and offering psychological and social support to victims of child marriages in different communities.
