Rugby Saves Girls From Becoming Child Brides

Schoolgirls in Zimbabwe have rugby to thank for saving them from becoming child brides. The game gives them more options in their life – in a country where early marriage is still common despite being outlawed in 2016.

“I used to hate rugby. At the time I believed the sport was only for the elite and for men, not girls like me,” says Catherine Muranganwa, 20, who has played for Zimbabwe’s Under-18 and Under-20 women’s national rugby teams. “When I travel for rugby I meet amazing women and I have realised that getting married early is not the right choice.”

Education is key, and rugby is mandatory for all girls at Muranganwa school since the sport improves their outlook regarding early marriages. Coach Patricia Makunike-Chakanya not only trains girls but spends time with them “to counsel them and to protect them from predatory men in the village.” Most parents have rallied behind the girls’ rugby team which now has a sponsor. “We realized that by not supporting them they would give up on sport and get into the community where they become vulnerable to all sorts of abuse,” says Ivan Craig from Agriseeds, the girls’ team sponsor.