Early Marriage and the Future of Educational Opportunities for Girls in Ukerewe District, Tanzania

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence, drivers, consequences, and potential interventions for early marriage and its impact on girls’ educational opportunities in Ukerewe District, Mwanza Region, Tanzania. Using a mixed-methods convergent parallel design, the research combined quantitative data from structured questionnaires with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews involving students, teachers, head teachers, the District Secondary Education Officer, and quality assurance officers. Findings reveal that early marriage is prevalent among girls aged 14-18, particularly those from economically disadvantaged households and those who fail Form II national examinations. Key drivers include poverty, cultural practices such as unyago, low parental education, and legal provisions permitting marriage under 18. The consequences are profound-school dropout, early pregnancies, high maternal and infant mortality, and exposure to domestic violence. The study recommends harmonizing marriage laws with international conventions, enhancing financial and educational support for girls, integrating comprehensive sexuality education into school curricula, and implementing community sensitization and economic empowerment programs. Addressing early marriage in Ukerewe requires culturally sensitive, multi-sectoral strategies that tackle both its socio-economic and normative roots