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of the African Virtual University-Indiana University of Pennsylvania Partnership.

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Traditionalist says girls should marry at  the age of 14 or 15

Yasmin Ahmed Yousuf – Somaliland

Are there any advantages to early marriage for girls? At what age should a girl marry?

A Somaliland traditionalist  believes that girls  who marry early will not age early. 

The traditionalist, Yasmin, said early marriages also bring other d benefits.

Yasmin said: “My perception on early marriage of girls is that of my culture and that is the girl to be married the time she reaches maturity. There is a believe that if a girl is married at an early age she will not get aged early. Also When the girl is married at a young age she will only be with her husband she will not be going out with other men because she has not been exposed to the world.

Yasmin believes the  ideal age  for marriage is between 14 and 15 years.

Asked if there are any problems associated with early marriage Yasmin said,

“There are no profound problems that are associated to the issue. We believe that if a girl is married at an early marriage because she can give birth to many children.”

Asked about education Yasmin says the girl should be educated to manage her family and give good care to her husband and the children. This training should be given to her mother and grand mothers. It is up to the man to earn/raise for the family living cost.

 “: People should stick value and uphold their traditions. We had no problems with and we lived with it for centuries and we still want to practice it, for any one who is against it should stay away from our esteemed culture,” Yasmin said.