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Shama's Story

The practice of early marriage in the Sindh Province area increased during the flood crisis in 2011. Shama, a 17-year-old mother of three children, was forced to marry at the age of 12. She and her children suffered serious health complications due to early motherhood. Sadly, one of her daughters died. 

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During the emergency period, UNICEF opened supportive facilities for young mothers in the disaster area that included activities like health education and peer support. 

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After attending sessions in the support centre, Shama developed an understanding of the effects of early pregnancy. Shama is now determined to ensure that her children receive education so they can read and write, and have economic freedom. 

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Source: UNICEF Pakistan, 2011

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