The determinants of fertility for each population group in South Africa

Abstract

The study aims at examining the relationship between fertility and socio-economic characteristics in the course of which it investigates the determinants or correlates of fertility for each population group (Africans, Coloureds, Whites and Asians) in South Africa. The main source of data for this study was the 1998 South African Demographic and Health Survey. In terms of statistical analysis, univariate, biavariate and multiple regression analyses were used. Univariate analysis was used to present the background characteristics of the respondents. Multivariate regression analysis was employed to determine the most important determinants of fertility for each population group. The study established that fertility is highest amongst Africans and lowest among whites. Asians and Coloureds have fertility that is between that of the Africans and Whites. The study also found that for each population group, fertility is measured by the mean number of children ever born which varies by socio-economic characteristics and status. The results of the multivariate regression indicate that proportion of "never married" is the most important determinant of fertility for all population groups. This finding suggests that the changing pattern of marriage in South Africa is the major factor influencing fertility in the country. Further studies should however describe the nature and causes of the changing patterns of marriage in South Africa. Another finding was that residing in urban areas is associated with lower fertility. This is because urban areas are associated with better services (health, transport, education, recreation, and social services), infrastructure and better living standards. As a result, there is a need to improve services in the rural areas in order to stimulate further decline in fertility in these areas. The other finding was that for Africans, primary education is associated with lower fertility and this was not expected. This therefore calls for further studies on the relationship between fertility and education for African population. It was also found that Coloureds, Whites and Asians desire additional children whereas the Africans desire to limit childbearing.