Mapping the Impact: Geospatial Analysis of Modern Contraceptive Use among Sexually Active Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Sub-Saharan Africa

Michael Chipeta, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
McEwen Khundi, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
Nyovani Madise

Modern contraceptives are vital for preventing maternal deaths, enhancing long-term health for adolescents, and improving women’s social and economic opportunities. However, usage remains low among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa (sSA). This study examines the factors impacting modern contraceptive use among AGYW in Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Kenya, analysing data from Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and applying association tests, multilevel regression, and Bayesian geospatial modelling. The findings reveal low contraceptive use, particularly among younger adolescents, with significant variations across and within countries. Key factors include education, parity, healthcare access, residence, and age. Geospatial analysis identifies “coldspots” where targeted health interventions could have the most impact. The study underscores the importance of tailored sexual and reproductive health (SRH) programs that address individual and contextual factors, emphasising the need for integrated, sub-national family planning strategies to advance progress toward global and country-specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Keywords: Children, Adolescents, and Youth, Multi-level modeling , Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Family Planning and Contraception

See extended abstract.