According to a recent study by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), a significant number of Kenyan men are choosing to avoid marriage and remain single into their later years.1The report indicates that about half of Kenyan men are increasingly reaching old age without ever tying the knot.1This trend stands in contrast to the situation among Kenyan women, where the number of single women is lower compared to their male counterparts.

Delayed Marriage Among Kenyan Men

The study also reveals that the average age at which Kenyan men are getting married has been gradually increasing over the past decade.13In the 1980s, the average age of Kenyan men at marriage was 25 years, whereas the current average age is 29 years.13This suggests that men are delaying their commitment to marriage for longer periods.13In comparison, the average age of marriage for Kenyan women has also increased, from 21 years in the 1980s to 25 years currently.

Remarriage Patterns

The report further indicates that Kenyan men are more likely to remarry in the event of separation, divorce, or the death of a spouse, compared to their female counterparts.13The 2019 Census data shows that 7% of women reported being widowed, while only 1% of men reported being divorced. This suggests that men are more inclined to seek new marital relationships after the dissolution of a previous one.

Declining Fertility Rates

Alongside the trends in marriage, the study also highlights changes in fertility patterns among Kenyan women.1The report indicates that women are now having fewer children, with the average number of children per woman dropping from seven to three over the past decade. Additionally, women are also delaying the age at which they have their first child, with the average age increasing from 20 years to nearly 30 years.

Factors Contributing to the Decline in Marriage

The study suggests that various factors may be contributing to the decline in marriage among Kenyan men, including:

• Economic Challenges: The difficult economic conditions in the country may be leading some men to delay or avoid marriage, as they may not feel financially capable of supporting a family.
• Religious Beliefs: Religious doctrines and practices may also be influencing individuals’ decisions regarding marriage and family formation.
• Educational Pursuits: The pursuit of education and career may be taking precedence over marriage for some individuals, particularly among the younger generation.
• Personal Choices: Some men may be making a conscious decision to remain single, either due to past negative experiences with marriage or a personal preference for an independent lifestyle.

Regional Differences

The report also highlights regional variations in the patterns of marriage and singlehood. The study found that women in rural areas are more likely to remain unmarried after separation, divorce, or the death of a spouse, compared to their urban counterparts. This may be due to a combination of cultural factors and economic considerations.

Implications and Potential Solutions

​The decline in marriage among Kenyan men and the accompanying changes in fertility patterns have significant implications for the social fabric of the country. These trends may contribute to a weakening of traditional family structures and communities, as well as potential challenges in areas such as population dynamics and social welfare.

To address these issues, a multi-faceted approach may be necessary, including:

• Strengthening Marriage Education and Counseling: Providing comprehensive marriage education and counseling programs, particularly for the younger generation, could help equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of modern relationships and marriage.1618
• Promoting Financial Empowerment: Initiatives aimed at improving the economic stability and financial independence of both men and women could help reduce barriers to marriage and encourage more stable and fulfilling partnerships.
• Addressing Cultural and Social Norms: Engaging with communities to address underlying cultural and social norms that may be contributing to the decline in marriage, such as gender roles and expectations, could help foster a more supportive environment for marital relationships.
• Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Reviewing and strengthening the legal frameworks governing marriage, divorce, and property rights could help protect the rights and interests of all parties involved, particularly women.