Family Income and Marriage Celebration Costs in Kinondoni District in Dar ES Salaam Region, Tanzania

This study examined family income and marriage celebrations costs in Kinondoni District in Dar es Salaam region. The increasing rates of marriage celebration costs and family income has an impact on the development initiatives and this is a challenge to the growing generation because this money is used for celebrations. The main objective of the study was to examine the relationship between family income and marriage celebrations. The factors which influence marriage celebrations in Dar es Salaam and the country as a whole include income, occupation, education, place of residence and wealthy status of the family. The study was carried out using a sample survey of men and women aged between 20-49 years, of about 205 respondents were sampled from six wards in Kinondoni district and data was collected using structured questionnaire and observation. This research used a descriptive research design. The data was analysed through several ways: tables and cross tabulation, chi square analysis as well as graphs have been employed. The findings, of the study show that the number of marriage ceremonies and related costs are increasing despite the low income levels facing the households. Ages at first marriage, income, education, occupation, religion and place of residence were found to have statistically significant association on the marriage and marriage contributions. From these findings the study suggest that development issues should be given priority than marriage ceremonies. There is a need also raise the age at first marriage and education to women.