Ending Child Marriage in Zambia

After successfully completing exams to advance to senior secondary school, Mervis’ future looked bright.

However, like far too many young girls in Zambia, Mervis dropped out of school to get married at 17.

Unfortunately, the marriage left her emotionally abused and a single mother with little hope for a better life.

“I thought my world had ended,” Mervis says, “but The Salvation Army has given me the chance to go back to school and to build a better life for me and my child.”

Historically, Zambia has had one of the highest rates of child marriage and teenage pregnancy in the world, leaving many girls trapped in poverty, unable to improve their lives.

That’s why, partnering with the government of Zambia, The Salvation Army’s Prevention and Mitigation of Early Marriages Project is working to reduce early teenage marriages and pregnancy. The program empowers girls at risk through community youth development programs, education on reproductive health, and skills training. A key priority is ensuring that girls like Mervis are able to return to school. Today, more than 300 girls are planning their return.

With help from generous donors, we’re equipping these girls with the knowledge, opportunities and support needed to make informed decisions about their futures. This effort is not just about protecting girls, it’s about unlocking their potential and creating a more equitable future for them—and their families.

“The compassion of our donors is not only supporting individual girls but also benefiting entire communities and even the country of Zambia,” says Lt. Colonel Brenda Murray, Director of International Development.