This study investigated the social traditional norms that promote child early and forced marriage (CEFM) in the West Nile districts of Adjumani, Nebbi, Packwach and Zombo where Plan International Uganda is implementing the Girls Get Equal (GGE) project. The purpose of the research was to identify underlying factors and perceptions that lead to discriminatory social norms resulting in CEFM to inform more relevant programming by Plan International Uganda, government and other stakeholders. Specific objectives included identifying the roles of different stakeholders in promoting and preventing CEFM, their roles in addressing social traditional norms and the effectiveness of the approaches used, involvement of the girl bride in the marriage decision making process, as well as assessing the functionality and effectiveness of the community level child protection system.

The study adopted a cross sectional descriptive design and used a mixed methods approach involving a quantitative household survey as well as participatory qualitative methods. A total sample of 849 involving young people (10-24years) and adult men and women was covered; as well as 16 Focus Group discussions (FGDs), 9 Case studies with child marriage victims as well as over 80 individual interviews with district officials, cultural and religious leaders, Local councillors, Police, community volunteers and opinion leaders. Quantitative and qualitative data analyses were undertaken, and findings integrated for a more holistic presentation and discussion. The study received ethical approval from Makerere University School of Social Science Research Ethics Committee and the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology. Plan International’s child safeguarding protocols were adhered to in conducting the study.