Abstract

This study aims to find how parents influence early marriage among girls in Momba District. Households’ socio-economic characteristics were explored as factors influencing parents to marry off their daughters early. Cross-sectional design was adopted in the collection of data from 120 respondents in Momba District. Multiple regressions were used to analyze the data. Results showed that age, occupation, and household size were significant factors influencing parents to marry off their children early. The study recommends that the parents and community should be educated to discourage early marriage. Education can also help them to make informed decisions. Households should diversify their economic activities as majority in the area rely on farming which is a very sensitive occupation. Parents should also maintain small family sizes and see girls as having equal rights to education and growth as boys. The government should enforce policies that prohibit early marriage and set up strict laws to end early marriage practices in society.

Key words: Early marriage, parental influence, Momba District.