Levels and determinants of nonmarital fertility in Kenya

Abstract

Background: This study sought to identify factors associated with nonmarital fertility in Kenya.

Method: The study utilized a nationally representative sample of 12,777 never-married women aged 15-49 years sourced from the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were employed to analyze the data.

Results: The study revealed a nonmarital fertility prevalence of 35.7 percent. The occurrence of nonmarital fertility exhibited statistically significant association with various factors. Woman’s current age shows a strong association with nonmarital fertility, with higher odds observed with increasing age. Cohabitation status plays a significant role, with cohabiting women having a much higher likelihood of nonmarital fertility. Educational attainment inversely affects nonmarital fertility, with higher education associated with lower odds. Household wealth status is also inversely associated with nonmarital fertility. Employment status indicates that working women have higher odds of nonmarital fertility, with household and domestic work showing particularly high odds. Religion has a significant effect with Islam associated with lower odds. The place and region of residence also influence nonmarital fertility, with rural areas having higher odds, and all regions showing lower odds compared to Nairobi.

Conclusion: Nonmarital fertility is relatively high and significantly varies with the woman’s socio-demographic characteristics.  The study recommends interventions to reduce nonmarital fertility and for further research to explain occupational and regional disparities in nonmarital fertility risks in the country.