Fertility transition and socio-economic change in western Kenya.

Kenya's national survey data have shown patterns of fertility decline in the more socioeconomically advantaged regions. In the central areas, where urbanization and economic development is the highest, fertility has begun to decline rapidly. The lowest fertility was in Nairobi capital region; the Coast Province also experienced recent fertility decline. Fertility has remained high in the Western Province and in Nyanza, Rift Valley, and Eastern Provinces. The case study of Kisii district in Nyanza Province was used to illustrate the preconditions of high fertility. The district is an agriculturally rich region that includes rounded, steep-sided hills and narrow valleys. The district is a primary producer of cash crops such as coffee, tea, and pyrethrum, and other food crops including high-yielding varieties of maize. Farm size varies between 0.11 and 2.2 hectares and farms are owner occupied. All cultivable land is in use with traditional farming methods. Tractors are used in flat areas by 11.6% of farmers. 69.3% of farmers use fertilizers, but only 32% use insecticides and pesticides. Population density is 395 persons per square kilometer. The total fertility rate is 8.2 compared to 7.7 for the nation. 6% currently used contraception, and 23% have ever used. Fertility preferences of women under 25 years old is 6.9 children. Most farm labor, even among the wealthy farmers, is family labor organized by age and gender. Women are responsible for planting, weeding, harvesting and household chores. Male off-farm employment increases the agricultural production responsibilities of women. Only mothers of sons can control property and gain prestige. Modernization and land shortages have pressured families to increase nonfarm employment.