Spatial Heterogeneity of Nuptiality Patterns in Ethiopia: A Decomposition Analysis

Abstract

Different geographic contexts are observed to impact the nuptiality patterns depending on factors like socioeconomic level, educational achievement, religious affiliation, and cultural factors. This study examines the factors that account for regional variations in nuptiality patterns in Ethiopia. Data from the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in 2000 and 2016 were used. The likelihood of individuals entering their first marriage differed significantly depending on the regional variability of nuptiality patterns. Culturally, marriage typically occurs early and is nearly universal; however, this study revealed that there is a deviation from universal marriage patterns in Addis Ababa. No significant change in age at first marriage was observed between the two cohorts in all regions except Addis Ababa. In the Southern, Nations, Nationalities, and People (SNNP) and Harari regions, no change in the timing of the first marriage between the women birth cohorts. In Dire Dawa, the entry to first marriage was reversed and women residing in the Gambela region showed the highest postponement. National population policy effectively contributed to delaying marriage in the Gambela region. The regional heterogeneity in policy outcomes underscores the importance of considering sub-national factors when designing and evaluating demographic policies. The educational attainment, wealth index, and migration were merely the coefficient effects that explain the overall difference. Addressing inequalities in education achievements and wealth distribution promotes more equitable marriage practices across all regions.