In a remote district of Malawi, a remarkable woman named Theresa Kachindamoto has taken on a challenge that many would consider impossible. As a senior chief, her influence spans across 551 villages, where traditions have long dictated the lives of its inhabitants. But Theresa, known as “The Marriage Terminator,” has defied these deep-rooted customs, dedicating her life to ending child marriages and protecting the rights of young girls in her community.
The Path to Leadership
Theresa Kachindamoto was not born into power. In fact, she spent 27 years working as a secretary in the city of Zomba, far from the rural traditions of her ancestors. However, her life took a dramatic turn when she was chosen by the chiefs of Dedza district to be the senior chief—a role that would place the well-being of thousands under her care. Despite initial resistance and the challenges of being a woman in a predominantly patriarchal society, Theresa accepted the role with a clear vision: to protect the children, especially young girls, from the harmful practices of early marriages and initiation rites.
Ending Child Marriages
In Malawi, child marriage is a deeply entrenched practice, with nearly half of all girls married before the age of 18. For many, this tradition is seen as a way to secure the future of girls in a society where poverty is widespread. But Theresa Kachindamoto saw the tragic consequences of this practice—girls were being denied education, exposed to sexual violence, and trapped in cycles of poverty and abuse.
Determined to change this, Theresa began her campaign by nullifying over 850 child marriages and sending the girls back to school. She faced considerable opposition, including threats and resistance from the communities she served. However, her resolve was unshakeable. “I don’t want youthful marriages,” she declared, “they must go to school… no child should be found out of school.”
Theresa’s approach was not just authoritative but also compassionate. She worked with the community, educating them on the importance of keeping girls in school and the long-term benefits of delaying marriage. She also collaborated with other chiefs, enacting by-laws that made it illegal for parents to marry off their children and setting penalties for those who defied these rules.
Banning Sexual Initiation Camps
Theresa’s mission did not stop at ending child marriages. She also targeted the traditional sexual initiation camps where girls as young as ten were sent to be “prepared” for marriage. These camps often involved harmful practices, including forced sexual activities, that were intended to teach girls how to please their future husbands. Understanding the dangers these camps posed, Theresa banned them in her district. She faced enormous pressure from cultural leaders who saw these camps as a rite of passage, but she remained steadfast, prioritizing the health and future of the girls over tradition.