A latest survey by Mwelekeo Insights has revealed that attitudes toward marriage are shifting dramatically among young women in Nairobi. The study, which surveyed 2,687 women under the age of 30, shows that fewer women are seeing marriage as a must-have life goal.
The results are telling: just 29% of the women view marriage as an essential part of their future, while 53% say it’s not something they prioritize at all.
About 18% are still unsure, showing a clear trend toward focusing on personal goals, like career growth and financial independence, rather than traditional views of marriage.
Despite these changes, there’s still noticeable pressure from society to get married.
Half of the women (50%) admitted they feel some pressure from family or society to settle down.
However, many are concerned about how marriage might affect their freedom.
In fact, 60% of the women surveyed believe that marriage could limit their independence, with many mentioning how it might interfere with their career goals.
An interesting twist in the survey was the response to polygamy.
Half of the women (51%) said they would consider polygamy if it offered economic benefits, showing a practical, even pragmatic approach to relationships.
Family expectations also continue to play a strong role in shaping how these women view marriage.
Half of the respondents mentioned that their families’ views whether positive or negative still influence their opinions about getting married.
The survey also found that education and employment status have a significant impact on attitudes.
Women with higher education and better jobs were much more likely to prioritize personal growth over marriage, with 67% of them saying marriage wasn’t a priority.
Meanwhile, only 33% of women with lower education levels felt the same way.
Black businesswoman talking to a candidate during job interview. Photo: Getty Images
Urban women, in particular, are also more likely to deprioritize marriage, with 62% of city-dwellers saying marriage isn’t at the top of their list, compared to just 38% of women in rural areas.
While religion does play a role, it’s not as influential as other factors.
About 53% of respondents said their religious beliefs shape their views on marriage, but only 14% felt that religion had no impact at all.
Woman speaks during a past interview. Photo: Getty Images
Regarding Education and Employment, the Mwelekeo Insights’ report discovered that highly educated and employed women were more likely to deprioritize marriage.
Specifically, 67% of women with higher education levels (college/university and above) were less likely to prioritize marriage compared to 33% of women with only secondary education.
On Fulfillment Without Marriage 59% of women believed that marriage was not necessary for personal fulfillment and achievement, with 41% still considering it necessary.
