A new study by Mwelekeo Insights, conducted between February 3 and 19, 2025, reveals that more young women in Nairobi are open to polygamy—under specific conditions.
The research, which surveyed 2,687 women aged 18–30, highlights how financial security, career goals, and societal pressures influence their views on marriage.
One of the key findings is that some women see marrying a wealthy man, even in a polygamous setup, as a practical choice.
Photo: Mwelekeo Insights Source: X
Financial stability is a major factor in their decision-making, especially in a city where the cost of living is high and financial independence can be challenging.
The study also found that 58% of women prefer to marry between the ages of 27 and 30, prioritizing career growth and financial independence.
In contrast, only 7% believe marriage before age 24 is ideal, highlighting a shift away from early marriages.
Photo: Mwelekeo Insights Source: X
Additionally, 50% of the respondents feel societal pressure to marry, while the other half believe these expectations are gradually fading.
Mwelekeo Insights ensured the study followed ethical research standards, maintaining participants’ anonymity and voluntary participation.
The findings align with broader trends showing that the average age of marriage for urban women in Kenya has risen to 21.5 years.
While polygamy has traditionally been linked to poverty and inequality, this study suggests that, for some young women, it may now be a strategic choice in response to economic realities.
As attitudes toward marriage evolve, these insights spark important discussions about gender, culture, and financial stability in modern Nairobi.
“Between February 3 – 19, Mwelekeo Insights team has been engaging women aged 18-30 residing in Nairobi on their perspectives on marriage with emphasis on ideal age, education & career factors, fulfilment, polygamy, societal and religious factors among others,” Mwelekeo Insights wrote on X on February 25, 2024 during a series of posts.
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