Mwelekeo Insights has released new findings that show a big shift in how young women in Nairobi view marriage.
The poll focused on women aged 18 to 30 and included 2,687 respondents from across Nairobi County. The study found that many young women today do not see marriage as a main goal in life.
Only 29 percent of the women said marriage was important to them. More than half, about 53 percent, said it was not a priority and 18 percent were unsure.
The study looked at why some women are no longer placing marriage at the top of their life plans. The main reasons were the need for financial independence, career growth and personal freedom.
Over half of the women said they prefer to build their careers and become financially stable before thinking about marriage.
About 60 percent of the women said they feel marriage could reduce their freedom. Some explained that once married, they may have to focus more on home duties than on their personal goals. However, 25 percent felt marriage could bring positive changes while 15 percent were neutral.
The study also showed that pressure from family and society is still strong. Half of the women said they feel some form of pressure to get married, especially those from more traditional backgrounds.
Religion also plays a role. More than half of the women said their religious beliefs shape how they view marriage. But a third said religion plays a small part and some said it has no effect at all.
Interestingly, many women now prefer to marry later in life. Forty-five percent said they would rather marry after the age of 30 while only 30 percent thought the best age was between 28 and 30.
Eighteen percent were unsure. The study also showed that 59 percent of the women believe they can live a full and happy life without getting married.
Education and work also influence views on marriage. Women who are employed and have higher education are more likely to put off marriage compared to those with less education. Women living in urban areas also tend to delay marriage more than those in rural parts of Nairobi.
One other surprise from the poll was that 51 percent of the women said they would be open to a polygamous marriage if it could improve their financial lives.
Mwelekeo Insights hopes these findings help people better understand the changes happening in Kenyan society. As more young women focus on education, careers and personal growth, their views on relationships and marriage continue to evolve.
