A 29-year-old Angolan man was denied bail in the Rundu Magistrate's Court on Tuesday after traditionally marrying a 14-year-old girl.

The minor’s mother was, however, granted bail of N$1,000.

It is alleged that the 29-year-old man approached the 41-year-old woman and asked for permission to marry the minor. Both have been charged with rape.

The two were arrested over the weekend.

Reports indicate that the man promised to support the minor’s school-related needs, after which the mother agreed and allowed the 14-year-old to stay at the suspect’s home.

The grade five learner had been staying with the suspect from May until August 17, 2025, at Ncaute village in the Kavango West Region.

The case has been postponed to December 9, 2025.

Child marriage remains a common practice in some Kavango West communities. Police are urging parents and guardians to stop this practice, warning that it harms minors and perpetuates a cycle that puts children’s lives at risk.