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Quiet reasons why polygamy still appeals to some men
30th April, 2026 12:29 PM
For many Kenyans, marriage is still imagined as a union between two people. But for a section of men, one wife is not the full picture.
Polygamy, more specifically polygyny, where a man marries multiple wives, continues to exist quietly within both rural and urban spaces.
According to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics and the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, about 4.5 per cent of married men have more than one wife, while 9.2 per cent of married women are in polygamous unions.
While the numbers show the practice is declining, it has not disappeared, and the reasons behind it are often more complex than many assume.
Culture, tradition, and identity
In many communities, especially along the coast and in parts of northern Kenya, polygamy is still tied to cultural identity. It’s not always seen as controversial.
Sociologists note that in such settings, having more than one wife may be linked to status and continuity of lineage. One commonly cited belief is that “a large family reflects wealth and legacy”, a view that still influences older generations.
Economic and social factors
Interestingly, data suggests polygamy is more common among people with lower income and education levels. In some cases, men associate multiple marriages with economic support systems, though this is debated. Research shows the reality can be strained.
A report on household welfare found that about 43 per cent of polygamous households fall into poverty, compared to 27 per cent in monogamous ones. Still, some men see it differently. They argue that multiple partners help build a bigger family network or provide companionship if one relationship is struggling.
Religion and personal beliefs
Religion also plays a role. In Islam, for instance, polygyny is permitted under specific conditions, including fairness among wives. For some men, this becomes a justification rooted in faith rather than preference. Others interpret it as a personal choice tied to lifestyle and belief systems.
Changing attitudes among younger men.
Younger generations appear less drawn to polygamy. Surveys show the practice drops significantly among educated and urban populations.
Beyond the numbers
At its core, polygamy is not driven by a single reason. It sits at the intersection of culture, economics, religion, and personal choice. But it also raises difficult questions about equality, emotional well-being, and financial responsibility.
The issue is not just how many wives, but how stable the relationships are.
