A Cross-Regional Investigation of Demographic and Socio-Economic Factors Associated with Low Fertility among Women in Uganda

Jude Otim, Makerere University

Studies on fertility in Uganda have highlighted persistently high fertility, amidst several interventions, and no logical attempt has been undertaken to understand whether the predictors of low fertility would be different across regions among women (40-49 years) who have had enough time to have their “large” or “less large” families. 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey data was used to examine fertility among women (40-49 years) across regions. Multivariable Logistic regression was used to examine the net-effects of demographic and socio-economic factors on low fertility across regions. Low fertility was highest among women in central region (26.9%), and lowest in northern region (15.5%). Across regions, education level, wealth quintile, and ever-used contraceptives predicted low fertility. Religion, residence, marital status, age at first marriage, ideal number of children, and number of lifetime sexual partners were only predictors in particular regions. Therefore, need for empowering women, and investment in further scientific research.