Latwell Nyangu
THE Teen Rescue Mission Trust (TRMT) has urged girls to participate in sports to combat early marriages.
The TRMT hosted a football tournament sponsored by Image Magic Corporate last week at Besa ground in Chitungwiza.
It was attended by students, Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation officials and junior parliamentarians to raise awareness on the issue.
TRMT director, Abraham Matuka, spoke of the problems of early pregnancy and how this can lead to girls dropping out of school, saying “the girl child is important and we need to let the girl grow to be a great woman”.
“We have a large number of young girls dropping out of school due to early pregnancy and these early pregnancies normally happen during holidays,” said Matuka.
Matuka applauded efforts by Karen Gondo, director of Image Magic Cooperate, who was the guest of honour at the event, for being a loving mother to the girl child.
“The kind gesture by Image Magic Cooperate for coming out in their social responsibility side by supporting the drive to fight for young people’s lives is a noble move.
“We as Teen Rescue Mission are fighting drugs and substance abuse and early pregnancy and having cooperates like you understanding the damage drugs and substance abuse and early marriages do to future generations is commendable.”
Gondo said:
“We want to thank Teen Rescue Mission Trust for their drive to fight for the girl child.
“You are special girls and the world deserves to know that. One word which I want to give you girls is that you can make it big in life, don’t let anyone abuse you.”
Junior Minister of Defence, Natasha Njambi, emphasised the importance of sport in promoting unity and fostering healthy competition among young people.
“During the holidays, a lot happens and this event is so relevant and I urge girls to protect themselves during the holiday.
“I also want to thank Image Magic Corporate for sponsoring the event and urge other corporates to emulate their example,” she said.
Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation representative, Memory Kanyati, also encouraged young girls to participate in sports and other extracurricular activities to build their confidence, leadership skills and promote their overall well-being.