KNBS records smaller family sizes nationally, while rural women average 3.6 children compared with 2.6 in urban areas.
Kenya fertility rate has fallen to three children per woman, down from four in 2022, a new KNBS survey shows. The findings also show that women in rural areas continue to have more children than their urban counterparts.
The 2025/2026 Kenya Mini Demographic and Health Survey puts the urban fertility rate at 2.6 children per woman. By comparison, women in rural areas average 3.6 children, a difference of one child per woman.
The national decline reflects a continuing shift towards smaller families. However, the urban and rural figures highlight differences in family sizes across the country.
Kenya fertility rate findings to guide planning
The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics conducted the mini survey across all 47 counties. Its updated population and health indicators will support planning at both national and county levels.
KNBS Acting Director General Benjamin Avusevwa said the exercise fills the information gap between two comprehensive surveys. It connects the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey with the next full exercise.
The findings also give policymakers updated evidence on reproductive health and wider population trends. That information will help guide interventions in healthcare, education and other social sectors.
Alongside the national average, the urban-rural breakdown provides planners with a picture of differing reproductive patterns across the population.
