Socio-cultural determinants of fertility in Kasulu district, Tanzania
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Date
2007
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Publisher
Sokoine University of Agriculture
Abstract
Total fertility rate (TFR) in Kasulu District, in Kigoma Region is 7.9. This is highest
compared to other regions in Tanzania. This has brought about some adverse effects on
social and economic life of the people. Despite the efforts made to regulate fertility',
fertility rate is still high. The main objective of the study was to determine the socio
cultural factors influencing fertility. This will assist policy makers and programme
planners to develop the appropriate strategies for regulating fertility in the district. Specific
objectives of the study were to estimate the number of children born per woman, compare
specifically the fertility rate of host (Tanzanians) and that of refugee populations, and to
determine how sex preferences, value of children and religiosity affect fertility. A cross
sectional study design was employed, whereby a multistage sampling technique was used
in combination with simple random sampling method. The study involved a sample of 240
people. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Other sources included
informal dialogue, focus group discussion (FGD), and participant observation. The data
were analysed by using Statistical Package for Social Science computer programme to
obtain averages, frequencies, percentages, minimum and maximum values. The findings
show that the number of births by women during the 12 months period prior to the survey
resulted in the TFR of 8.4 in the surveyed area, which is high. Fertility' is influenced by
demographic characteristics such as age and socio-cultural variables such as religiosity.
Others are cultural values. The study recommends that, because the knowledge and use of
family planning methods are low, there is a call for more NGOs to establish more
programmes on family planning issues.
Kasulu District is one of the poorest in Tanzania.
Fertility may be best addressed through deliberate efforts to bring development in Kasulu
district.
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Thesis
Keywords
Kasulu district, Tanzania, Fertility - Socio-cultural determinants