A promise unbroken
Akera's fight for childhood
Akera Ojulu, a 14-year-old girl residing in the village of Akemagilo, Thatha Kebele (sub-district), Gog Woreda (district) of Gambella Region, is not just a diligent fifth-grade student with a penchant for academic success, but also a beacon of positivity within her community. Amidst her responsibilities of managing household chores and caring for her six siblings, Akera's exemplary behaviour has earned her the admiration of both teachers and community members in her village.
However, the serenity of Akera's life was disrupted when rumors surfaced during a routine home-to-home visit programme. Concerns escalated quickly as social workers identified a troubling situation – Akera was at the center of an arranged marriage. Upon further investigation, it became apparent that Akera's family was grappling with additional challenges. Her elder brother, eager to marry, faced financial constraints regarding the bride price, while Akera's aunt battled a severe illness demanding costly medical treatments.
Swift intervention from a social worker named Ojulu Okwer Ojulu considered the situation for comprehensive case management. In addition, further assessment revealed her father's desperation, leading him to consider marrying off Akera as a solution to financial struggles. Recognizing the severity, a collaborative effort involving social workers, supervisors, kebele administrators, women's league, and women's unit wason board for support.
A community-based child protection committee convened in the kebele, engaging in discussions that prompted Akera's father to candidly admit his misguided actions. He revealed his attempt to marry off his daughter to a wealthy older man, underlining the financial motivations behind the decision. The collective dialogue facilitated a change of heart as the father, now more aware of the potential harm to Akera's future, rescinded the marriage proposal, and her father was advised and referred to the woreda microfinance office for getting a financial service. Emphatically denouncing such practices, her father pledged to advocate against child marriage and ensure the protection of children's rights.
He expressed remorse, saying, "I wanted what was best for my family, but I see now I almost made a grave mistake." The social worker, continuously trained in case management and other child protection issues by the Bureau of Women and Social Affairs, is dedicated to Akera's ongoing well-being. They have implemented a follow-up plan, conducting regular visits to verify the father's commitment. Subsequent assessments revealed that Akera's father remained unwavering in his support for her education and in his efforts to protect her from forced marriage.
Subsequent assessments revealed that Akera's father remained dedicated to supporting her education and protecting her from forced marriage. The follow-up efforts continue to shield Akera and her peers from forced marriages, emphasizing sustained community awareness and support to uphold children's rights. Akera expressed her relief and gratitude, stating, "I couldn't believe it when I heard the marriage arrangement was canceled. A weight lifted off my shoulders, and I felt a sense of relief wash over me. Knowing I won't be forced into marriage and can continue my education fills me with gratitude towards everyone who intervened to help.’’
The UNFPA-UNICEF Global Programme to End Child Marriage is generously funded by the Governments of Belgium, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; the European Union through the Spotlight Initiative; and Zonta International.
