Fewer Kenyan women saying 'I Do' as marriage rates drop

A notable trend in Kenya indicates a decline in marriage rates among women aged 15-49 between 1989 and 2022.

The proportion of married women in this age group has steadily decreased, falling from 63.1% in 1989 to 48.1% in 2022.

While there were slight fluctuations, such as a minor increase to 54.6% in 2004, the overall trajectory points towards a significant shift in societal norms or economic factors influencing marriage decisions.

This continuous drop, as detailed in the Kenya Vital Statistics Report 2024 by KNBS, suggests a evolving landscape for Kenyan women, where marriage may be less prevalent or is being delayed compared to previous decades.