Monica’s Early Marriage Rescue Story

Monica, a 15-year-old Maasai girl, dreams of becoming a nurse. However, as is the case for many girls her age in Tanzania, and especially in pastoralist districts like her native Monduli,  Monica’s greatest fear is child marriage. 

Monica’s fear of child marriage almost came true when her father tried to force her into an early marriage after completing her final primary school examinations, at age 14. As with many pastoralist families, Monica’s father did not see any value in educating his daughter. However, unlike many girls in similar situations, Monica had the skills and confidence to fight back against her father’s plans.

Monica acquired these life-changing skills at Asante Africa’s Wezesha Vijana Program (WVP). Monica joined a WVP club at her school at age 11. The program holistically provides young individuals from underserved rural communities with life health, economic, social, and digital skills. 

Also, with a strong focus on gender equality and female empowerment, the program educates adolescent boys and girls like Monica on puberty changes. Conversations around girl-related issues like menstrual hygiene, youth rights, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) foster gender equality. Additionally, the program emphasizes financial independence and skill-building through small initiatives and savings. This focus reduces long-term financial dependency for both boys and girls.

Equipped with these life skills from such a young age and empowered to stand up for herself, Monica could fight back against her father’s plans to marry her off. With the support of Asante Africa Foundation and her primary school teacher, Monica left home and escaped her early marriage fate. 

With the support of Asante Africa staff, Monica’s teacher, with the support of Asante Africa staff, took her to a rescue home to await her examination results. Monica is determined to complete her education and holds onto her dream of becoming a nurse. 

During a conversation with the regional coordinator, Monica shared her gratitude with the Asante Africa Foundation’s regional coordinator. She is thankful for the skills and advice she obtained in the WVP club, particularly the “Early Marriage” session. Empowered, Monica is determined to overcome any obstacles that may come her way to pursue her chosen career path and make a difference in the world.