Kamuli, Uganda: A 13-year-old girl from Balawoli Sub-county in Kamuli District who fled a forced marriage arranged by her parents has received scholastic support from a local non-governmental organization to enable her to resume her education.
The intervention by Echoes of Children Voices Uganda (ECOVU) comes amid growing concern over child marriage and school dropout rates in parts of Kamuli, where poverty and harmful cultural practices continue to deny many girls their right to education.
During a ceremony held on Saturday, ECOVU donated scholastic materials, including books, pens, a school uniform and other learning essentials to Namaganda Mastula, a Primary Six pupil determined to return to school after escaping the marriage.
Speaking during the handover, Mastula recounted the ordeal that forced her to flee home, saying she chose education over early marriage.
“I was forced to get married but I ran away because I want to study and become somebody in future. Thank you ECOVU for supporting me. I also thank everyone who can help me to go back to school,” she said.
ECOVU Coordinator Mpaata Sharif said the organization intervened because every child deserves an opportunity to learn and fulfill their potential.
“We are here to support this girl because every child deserves an education. Parents should love their children more than money or dowry. Let us keep our girls in school,” Sharif said.
He said the organization remains committed to protecting children from abuse, combating child marriage and promoting girls’ education across Kamuli District and neighbouring communities.
Sharif called on parents and guardians to uphold children’s rights and support government efforts to keep girls in school instead of exposing them to early marriages.
Local leaders who witnessed the handover commended ECOVU for its timely intervention, noting that cases of child marriage remain a major challenge in Balawoli Sub-county.
They attributed the vice largely to poverty, limited access to education and entrenched cultural beliefs that encourage marrying off young girls.
Following her escape, Mastula has been taken in by Nakato Monica, who, together with other community members, offered her shelter and protection. Nakato said she stepped in to ensure the girl remains safe while preparing to resume her studies.
District education officials said keeping girls in school remains one of the most effective ways of reducing teenage pregnancies, early marriages, school dropouts and intergenerational poverty.
ECOVU officials pledged to continue monitoring Mastula’s welfare and academic progress while working closely with schools, parents and local leaders to ensure she completes her education.
Under Uganda’s Children Act and other child protection laws, marriage involving anyone below the age of 18 is prohibited. Authorities have repeatedly warned that parents, guardians or any individuals found forcing children into marriage risk arrest and prosecution.
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