EARLY MARRIAGE INFLUENCE ON HIV/AIDS PREVALENCE IN TURKANA CENTRAL SUB-COUNTY

Abstract

HIV/AIDS remains a major global public health challenge, with sub-Saharan Africa bearing the highest burden. Young people between the ages of 16 and 30 are among the most vulnerable, and despite extensive efforts by govern- ments and non-governmental organizations, infection rates continue to rise. Factors such as poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) further com- plicate the situation. While poverty and education are widely recognized as key contributors to HIV vulnerability, growing evidence suggests that early marriage also plays a significant role, particularly in marginalized communi- ties. This study explored the connection between early marriage and HIV/AIDS prevalence in Turkana Central Sub-County, Kenya. Using a descriptive re- search design, data were collected from 404 households, selected from a target population of 13,467 individuals. The Kothari formula was used to determine the sample size with a 5% margin of error. A structured questionnaire, tested for reliability using Cronbach’s alpha and validated by experts, was used for data collection. SPSS was employed to analyze the data and identify key rela- tionships between variables. Findings showed that early marriage remains deeply ingrained in Turkana’s culture, although attitudes are shifting among more educated and socially exposed individuals. The study established a strong link between early marriage and increased HIV/AIDS vulnerability, largely due to lower education levels, economic dependence, and limited access to sexual health information and protective measures. Additionally, polygamous unions and transactional sex were found to further heighten the risk of HIV transmission. Women and young girls were particularly affected, as economic struggles of- ten left them with little power to negotiate safer sexual practices. To address these challenges, the study recommends enhanced community awareness cam- paigns on the risks of early marriage, alongside expanded public health educa- tion programs spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and local authorities. Economic empowerment initiatives are also crucial, providing alternative sources of income and reducing reliance on high-risk coping strategies. These measures are essential to breaking the cycle of vulnerability and lowering HIV/AIDS prevalence in marginalized communities. The study’s findings pro- vide important perspectives that can guide policymakers, public health ex- perts, and development organizations in designing practical, evidence-based strategies to combat HIV/AIDS and tackle the underlying socioeconomic chal- lenges that contribute to its spread.