Examining Factors That Influenced The Upsurge of Teenage Motherhood During the Corona Virus Disease Pandemic Lockdown in Kenya: A Case of Bogiakumu Ward in Kisii South Sub-County, Kisii County-Kenya

Abstract

Teenage motherhood cuts short the dreams of young girls as far as their education, career aspirations and development, and holistic growth are concerned. During the coronavirus pandemic period, which was characterized by lockdown designed to contain the spread of the viral disease, there was a significant upsurge in the number of teenage mothers in Kenya. There is limited primary research on the factors that resulted in the rise in the number of teenage pregnancies. Accordingly, the present study aims to examine the social, economic, and psychological factors that influences the upward trend of the teenage motherhood in Kisii County’s Bogiakumu Ward, in Kisii South Sub-County. A descriptive survey design method was implemented using a survey questionnaire administered on a sample of 130 teenage mothers from Bogiakumu Ward, and key informant interviews from 10 respondents who include school head teachers, church leaders, youth leaders, and community leaders. Both qualitative and quantitative data collected were analyzed to generate answers to the main research questions. The findings show that there are diverse social, economic, and psychological factors that may have contributed to the upsurge in teenage motherhood in the study area. Evidence–based strategies for addressing the teenage motherhood problem, such as sex education, guidance and counseling in schools, and youth engagement programs are recommended based on the current research findings.