Assessing Contextual Influences of Modern Contraceptive Usage among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Sub-Saharan African Countries: A Geospatial Modelling Study, Post 2015

Maame Peterson, African Institute for Development Policy
McEwen Khundi, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
Michael Chipeta, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
Themba Mzembe, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
Chimwemwe Chifungo, African Institute for Development Policy
Ruth Vellemu, AMREF Malawi
Nyovani Madise, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)

Despite efforts to improve sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, modern contraceptive prevalence remains low among sexually active adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), impacting maternal mortality and women’s socio-economic roles. This study examines contextual factors influencing modern contraceptive use among AGYW in SSA, utilising Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) data from Nigeria (NDHS, 2018), Ethiopia (EDHS, 2016), and Kenya (KDHS, 2022). Employing multilevel regression models and geospatial techniques, we identify individual and contextual determinants and map contraception hotspots. Results show varied modern contraceptive use rates: Kenya (56.18%), Ethiopia (42.50%), and Nigeria (8.40%). Geographical disparities in factors influencing contraceptive use exist within and between countries, emphasising the need for tailored, sub-national family planning programs addressing education, parity, healthcare access, residence, and age. Prioritising education for girls emerges as crucial in promoting modern contraceptive use.