49%
Of women in Gabú are married before the age of 18
Early marriages
Legally, marriage in Guinea-Bissau is only allowed after the age of 18. However, with parental consent, this can be lowered to 16.
Marriage before the age of 18 is a major violation of human rights. It often affects a girl's development by leading to early pregnancy and social isolation, and by limiting her educational and vocational opportunities. Early child marriage is a direct manifestation of gender inequality.
Gabú has the highest rate of women marrying before the age of 18 in Guinea-Bissau: 49% marry under the age of 18.
57.8
Years is the average life expectancy
Low life expectancy
Life expectancy is a way to measure the health of a population.
The global average life expectancy is 72,7 years.
With an average life expectancy of 57.8 years Guinea-Bissau ranks lower than the average compared to other low-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
There are many reasons for this, such as high infant and maternal mortality rates as well as insufficient funding for health and social sectors.
Your support makes a difference for children in Gabú
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
560
Children and young people
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
100
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
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Children playing together. Brothers and sisters grow up together in families, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Guinea-Bissau).
How your support helps in Gabú
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.