Women's Empowerment and Sexual Autonomy in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Survey Based Analysis of 22 Countries

Abstract

This study examines the association between women's empowerment indicators and sexual autonomy across 22 sub-Saharan African countries, utilizing data from 188,017 women of reproductive age. Drawing from Demographic and Health Surveys, descriptive and multilevel logistic regression analyses were employed. Results reveal that 45.5% of women exhibit sexual autonomy, varying significantly by region, with the highest rates in Uganda (73.7%) and the lowest in Mali (15.1%). Central African women are twice as likely, Eastern African women 2.4 times as likely, and Southern African women three times as likely to have sexual autonomy compared to Western African counterparts. Education emerges as a crucial factor, with higher levels associated with increased autonomy (aOR = 5.23, 95% CI = 4.99–5.49). Exposure to family planning information via radio (aOR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.41–1.47) and television (aOR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.16–1.23) correlates positively with autonomy. Economic empowerment indicators such as mobile phone ownership, bank accounts, and internet usage also influence autonomy, while cultural norms, like justifying spousal violence, were less likely. Tailored interventions addressing regional disparities, education, media, economic empowerment, and cultural norms are vital for promoting sexual autonomy and gender equality in the region.