Local and long-distance migration among young people in rural Malawi: importance of age, sex and family

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Background: In sub-Saharan Africa, migration of young people is common and occurs for a variety of reasons. Research focus is often on international or long-distance internal migration; however, shorter moves also affect people’s lives and can reveal important information about cultures and societies. In rural sub-Saharan Africa, migration may be influenced by cultural norms and family considerations: these may be changing due to demographic shifts, urbanisation, and increased media access. Methods: We used longitudinal data from a Health and Demographic Surveillance Site in rural northern Malawi to present a detailed description of short and long distance, independent and accompanied, migration in young people between 2004-2017. We further explore the family and household factors which are associated with these moves using multi-level multinomial logistic regression modelling. Results & conclusions: We found two key periods of mobility 1) in very young childhood and 2) in adolescence/young adulthood. In this traditionally patrilocal area, we found that young women move longer distances, to live with their spouse. Despite the local patrilineal customs, we found evidence of the importance of the maternal family, and that female and male children may be treated differently from as young as age 4, with girls more likely to migrate long distances independently, and more likely to accompany their mothers in other moves. Young people living close to relatives tend to have lower chances of moving, and those from more advantaged families are more likely to move.