Malawi traditions lead to sexual abuse of girls, church workers say

Published: 2003-10-14

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (CNS) -- A Malawi diocesan report said traditional sexual practices violate the human rights of young girls while exposing them to sexually transmitted diseases. A church spokesman said the church will embark on a civic education program in rural areas to teach young girls about their rights. Among the findings of a report by the Commission for Justice and Peace in the Mzuzu Diocese was the revival of a traditional practice called "kupimbira," where parents arrange for their daughters, some as young as 12, to marry financially secure older men. The report, the result of research done by local parishes' justice and peace groups, said that, although many Malawians are aware of their human and constitutional rights, rights activists have not reached remote areas of the country.

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