Differences in Fertility Desires between Men and Women: The Role of Gender Context

Salome N. Wawire, Independent Consultant
An-Magritt Jensen, Norwegian University of Science and Technology

We examine differences in fertility desires between men and women in Kwale and Bungoma, Kenya, and explore the role of men and women in realizing these desires. Using qualitative data, we examine these roles in the context of geo-cultural values as perceived through Bukusu and Christian value systems (Bungoma) and Digo and Muslim value systems (Kwale). Further, we look at the position of women within these value systems and examine its impact on fertility desires and pathway to realizing ideal fertility. Women in Kwale enjoy higher levels of freedom than women in Bungoma. This is due to the difference in gender/ marriage systems. In both areas, the prominence of polygyny creates competition and encourages desire for high fertility. There are differences in fertility outcomes - women in Bungoma have more children than those in Kwale. There is discordance in fertility desires between men and women in both areas.