Lilongwe: The Malawian president and a UN official have extended condolences over the passing of Senior Chief Theresa Kachindamoto, known for her tireless efforts to end thousands of child marriages in the country.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Kachindamoto, the senior chief of Dedza district in central Malawi, passed away on Wednesday due to liver failure, as announced by the Malawian Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture. She was laid to rest on Saturday in a Ngoni cultural ceremony.

Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera stated that Kachindamoto will be remembered as “a development-oriented leader and champion of girls’ rights, whose work earned her numerous local and international awards.” He emphasized her legacy of hard work, patriotism, and dedication to the marginalized as a continual source of inspiration, urging unity to continue the fight against early pregnancies and marriages in Malawi.

Richard Delate, the UN Population Fund’s Malawi Representative, praised Kachindamoto as “a trailblazer, a visionary and a fearless advocate for the rights and dignity of women and girls.” He highlighted her tireless efforts that led to the annulment of thousands of child marriages and the reintegration of girls into school, transforming countless lives. Delate acknowledged her courage and leadership as an inspiration for change both in Malawi and globally.

Kachindamoto’s impactful campaign against child marriages and harmful cultural practices earned her global recognition, including the 2017 Leadership in Public Life Award at the 16th Annual Vital Voices Global Partnership Award Ceremony in Washington, D.C., and the 2024 African Genius Award.