Levels and factors associated with birth registration in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya

Collins Juma, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC)
Donatien Beguy, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC)
Blessing Mberu, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC)

In this paper, we look at levels and factors associated with birth registration in Nairobi slums using data from the Nairobi Cross-sectional Slum Survey, a DHS-type survey conducted in 2012 in all Nairobi slums, Kenya. Using descriptive statistics and logistic regression, we established that overall 72% of children were registered but only 30% had a birth certificate. Those aged at least 2 years are more likely than those aged less than a year to have a birth certificate. Children born to Kikuyu/Meru/Embu mothers are more likely to be registered and to have a birth certificate as compared to those born to mothers from other ethnic groups. Mothers aged at least 25 are significantly more likely to get a birth certificate after registration. Mother’s level of education is highly associated with registration and having a birth certificate. These preliminary findings offer early insight into factors driving birth registration in Nairobi slums.