Determinantes dos casamentos prematuros entre crianças chefes de família: evidências da Associação Cristo na Aldeia em Mutua, Moçambique

This article analyzes the factors influencing the occurrence of early marriages among orphaned children who are heads of households assisted by the Cristo na Aldeia Association, located in the village of Mutua, Dondo district, Sofala province, Mozambique. The research adopted a mixed methodological approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, using direct observation, interviews, and questionnaires. The sample consisted of 21 participants, intentionally selected, including 15 orphaned children who are heads of households, 2 community leaders, and 4 association employees. The results indicate that poverty, low levels of education, absence of parents, sociocultural beliefs, and insufficient information about the legal, social, and health consequences of early marriage are fundamental factors for the persistence of the phenomenon. It is concluded that early marriage compromises the integral development of children, making intersectoral interventions involving the State, organizations, civil society, and community leaders necessary.