Yurna Africa

Theresa Kachindamoto became one of Africa’s most influential voices by cancelling over 850 child marriages in Malawi.

As a traditional chief, she challenged deeply rooted cultural norms and risked her position to protect girls from forced marriages, promoting education, children’s rights, and gender equality. Her courage transformed lives and inspired change across the continent, demonstrating that leadership and determination can combat harmful practices entrenched in society.

In just three years, Kachindamoto annulled more than 850 child marriages, sending hundreds of girls and boys back to school. She introduced a zero-tolerance policy and even suspended local chiefs who permitted such unions in their villages, sending a clear message about the territory’s new priorities and the protection of children’s rights.

Source: AI Jazeera