ASMARA, Eritrea, July 31, 2026/APO Group/ —
The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare branch in Tessenai sub-zone conducted a seminar for religious leaders and village elders focusing on ensuring the rights of children and mothers.
At the seminar, Mr. Michael Gebreselasie, head of the branch office, called for a strengthened role by communities, administrations, and other government institutions in eradicating harmful practices, particularly female genital mutilation and underage marriage, which negatively affect the health of women and girls.
Mr. Gebrehiwet Tekeste, head of public health, noted that the Ministry of Health is working with partners toward declaring free of female genital mutilation by 2030. He called for coordinated efforts by all stakeholders to strengthen participation for realizing the initiative.
Mr. Gebrehiwet further said that female genital mutilation and underage marriage are among the major causes of maternal and infant deaths during childbirth. He urged families and society to participate actively in efforts to eradicate these practices.
It was also underlined that female genital mutilation is prohibited in Eritrea under Proclamation No. 158/2007, while underage marriage is prohibited under Article 581 of the Provisional Civil Code. Those who participate in these practices are held accountable under the law.
Mr. Seium Gebreyesus, Administrator of the sub-zone, expressed the readiness of the sub-zonal administration to play its due role, in collaboration with partners, in efforts to eradicate harmful practices.
