A Comparative Analysis of Prevalence and Consistent Correlates of Intimate Partner Violence Against Women in Three West African Countries

Abstract

Intimate Partner Violence Against Women (IPVAW) is a global public health problem with huge social policy implications. A quick survey of current literature reveals that very little is known about women’s experiences of IPVAW in Africa as the majority of previous IPVAW studies have originated from Western, high-income countries, leaving us with questions about their theoretical relevance in low- and middle-income countries (LAMIC), such as those in sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, the author analyses nationally-representative Demographic and Health Surveys of three West African countries, involving a total of 27,306 currently-partnered women aged 15–49 years – in Gambia (2013, n=3,232), Nigeria (2013, n=20,152) and Sierra Leone (2013, n=3,922) – to report the magnitude and consistent correlates of IPVAW in these LAMIC. Data analysis involved preliminary spearman rank correlation and multivariate logistic regression models to comparatively ascertain consistent IPVAW factors across these countries. The result shows that many women still experience different forms of IPVAW in these countries. Lifetime IPVAW experience from the age of 15 ranged from 23.3 % in Nigeria, 24.5 % in the Gambia, to 50 % in Sierra Leone, while in the last 12 months IPVAW experience ranged from 12.2 % in Gambia, 19.2 % in Nigeria, to 34.6 % in Sierra Leone. Women witnessing parental violence during childhood and having a husband who manifests controlling behaviours were the most consistent factors significantly exposing women to IPVAW in all countries. However, women having tolerant attitudes towards wife-beating, the husband’s alcohol consumption and women earning more than their husbands were also positive corelates of IPVAW. The results suggest the need for urgent proactive actions to protect women from IPVAW in these West African countries. Other findings relevant for policy recommendations and interventions are discussed.