Eritrea’s Gash Barka region is stepping up efforts to end child marriage. At a meeting in Barentu on July 19–20, local women’s union leaders reported strong actions underway to eliminate underage marriage while also boosting women’s socio‑economic status. They highlighted progress in supporting women through small-scale farming, trade groups, income-generating activities, and vocational training done in partnership with other groups. Union head Yihdega Yohannes noted that these programs are helping women earn and access education and health services, even in remote areas of the region. The initiative is part of Eritrea’s broader national push to eradicate harmful traditions like child marriage, while giving girls more choices and opportunities. Though challenges remain, local leaders believe the combination of economic programs and efforts to change social norms is making a real difference in reducing underage marriage in Gash Barka.
Pray for the success of all the efforts to end child marriage in the Gash Barka region, Eritrea. Pray for a breakthrough in social and cultural norms to end gender-based discrimination in the country. (The Holy Bible, Psalm 40:17).
Pray for educational and economic opportunities for all the girls and women in Eritrea. Pray for them to have access to all their basic needs and rights in their homes and their homeland. (The Holy Bible, Psalm 113:7).
News Source: Youth Foundation
Image Source: Canva
