By Eddah Waithaka
Dr. Mohamed Sheikh, Director General of the National Council for Population and Development (NCPD), delivered a keynote speech on Thursday, at the Chandaria Auditorium, University of Nairobi, during a panel discussion on ‘Marriage and Changing Family Structures’.
The event marked the final day of a conference addressing the evolving landscape of family institutions in Kenya and beyond.
In his address, Dr. Sheikh emphasized the critical role of the family as the fundamental unit of society, underscoring the need for comprehensive protection and support from the government.
“The family remains the cornerstone of social order, and its resilience and adaptability in the face of rapid socio-economic changes deserve recognition,” he stated.
Dr. Sheikh highlighted the findings of the 2022 Kenya Family Study conducted in Murang’a and Kwale counties, which revealed significant shifts in family structures.
These include a decline in traditional extended families, a rise in single-parent and child-headed households, and an increase in the median age of first marriage as young people prioritize education and career growth.
“Economic pressures, urbanization, and changing gender roles are reshaping family dynamics,” he noted. “We are witnessing a rise in dual-income households, blended families, and non-traditional unions such as ‘come we stay’ arrangements.”
The study also pointed to socio-economic challenges stemming from these changes, including increased family conflicts, gender-based violence, and child neglect.
Dr. Sheikh called for evidence-based interventions to address these issues, urging stakeholders to invest in nationwide studies to inform policy development.
“Marriage and family structures will continue to evolve, shaped by economic, social, and demographic factors,” he said. “It is our collective responsibility to ensure families remain strong, inclusive, and resilient.”
Dr. Sheikh concluded by challenging policymakers, researchers, and civil society to leverage the findings of the 2022 Kenya Family Study and expand similar research to all 47 counties.
“The county reports for Murang’a and Kwale are available on the NCPD website, and I encourage everyone to explore these valuable insights,” he added.
The panel discussion provided a platform for experts to share perspectives on the changing nature of families and propose actionable solutions to support family well-being in Kenya.
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