Socio-Economic Factors Influencing Teenage Pregnancy in Sarang'ombe Ward, Kibra Constituency, Nairobi County-Kenya

Abstract

Africa and especially, sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has one of the highest levels of teenage pregnancies in the world with 17 million adolescents giving birth each year. In spite of that, there is paucity of research on causes of teenage pregnancies in these SSA countries. Teenage pregnancies and the eventual dropping out of school have been and still is a major problem bedeviling the education sector and the wellbeing of most victims in many developing countries. This study investigated the socio-economic factors influencing teenage pregnancy in Sarang’ombe Ward in Kibra, Nairobi. The sample size was 99 pregnant teens. The study adopted snowball and purposive sampling in selecting the sample. Data was collected using interview schedules and key informant interview guides. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS Version 23. Respondents’ voices were captured to reinforce the study findings. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. The study revealed that the main social factors that influenced teen pregnancy in the study area were poor housing (97 %), orphan hood (88 %) and Night vigils (68 %). Further the study revealed that poverty was significant in explaining teen pregnancies (82 %). Similarly, child exploitation and prostitution accounted for 38% and 18% respectively. The study further established that financial constraints, inadequate social support, absentee fathers, stigmatization, and low educational achievements among others were key factors that influenced teenage pregnancies. This study recommends education for young people regarding teenage pregnancy, especially in areas experiencing high levels of poverty. The Kenyan government with the help of NGOs, CBOs and youth groups should also ensure that parents are well educated on the how and when to talk about issues related to sexuality and teenage pregnancies with their children.