Emma Watson fights to end child marriages in Africa

Harry Potter star Emma Watson condemned child marriages during a visit to Africa on Monday (10Oct16).

The 26-year-old actress called on leaders across the continent to change laws that make tribal weddings between young girls and older men illegal.

Watson, who was in Malawi as a goodwill ambassador for UN (United Nations) Women on the eve of International Day of the Girl Child, revealed she had met teenagers forced into marriage.

"Meeting with young girls, who like many in their country, are struggling with poverty and were pressured into early marriage ... made me realize just how important it is for women to be able to make their own choices," Watson said.

Malawi lawmakers recently made child marriage illegal, but some local tribal chiefs have not recognized the legislation.

Watson met with traditional leaders who have championed the annulment of child marriages in their communities.