A new national survey by Darubini Poll has revealed troubling patterns in sex and dating behavior among university students in Kenya, raising fresh concerns over public health risks, exploitation, and the growing influence of economic pressure on relationships.
The study, conducted between March 26 and April 1, 2026, paints a complex picture of student life where multiple-partner relationships, inconsistent protection use, and transactional dating are becoming increasingly common.
According to the findings, 6 out of every 10 students surveyed reported having more than one sexual partner. Health experts warn that such patterns significantly increase exposure to sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS, particularly when combined with inconsistent protection use.
Among female students, the trends are particularly striking. The report indicates that 3 in 5 are involved in at least two concurrent relationships, while 2 in 5 reported having three partners at the same time. Additionally, 2 in 5 admitted to engaging in unprotected sex, often underestimating the associated risks.
The report highlights transactional and cross-generational relationships as a major driver of these trends. Many female students reported maintaining relationships with their peers while also engaging older, financially stable men, commonly referred to as sponsors.
These arrangements are largely driven by financial needs, including tuition fees, rent, and daily expenses, as well as pressure to maintain certain lifestyles. The study notes that many of these older partners are married or in committed relationships, creating complex networks that may heighten the risk of disease transmission.
Beyond economic factors, the survey raises serious ethical concerns within academic institutions. It found that 3 out of 5 female respondents reported awareness of situations where students engage in intimate relationships with lecturers in exchange for academic favors.
While the study frames these as reported experiences and peer awareness rather than verified cases, the findings point to potential abuse of power and gaps in enforcement of institutional policies meant to protect students.
Male students are also a key part of the evolving dynamics. The report shows that many male students engage in multiple concurrent relationships, often across different campuses or towns. Some also reported relationships with older women, commonly referred to as sugar mummies, primarily for financial or material support.
Peer pressure appears to play a significant role in shaping male behavior. A number of respondents indicated that masculinity is often associated with having multiple partners, creating social incentives for risky behavior.
Alarmingly, some male students admitted to inconsistent use of protection, citing reasons such as reduced pleasure or trust in their partners. Researchers warn that such attitudes contribute to the spread of infections across interconnected relationship networks.
Public health experts say the convergence of multiple partnerships, unprotected sex, cross-generational relationships, and power-imbalanced dynamics creates a high-risk environment. These factors not only increase the likelihood of infections but also contribute to unintended pregnancies and long-term emotional and psychological challenges.
The report identifies financial hardship as the leading driver of these behaviors, particularly among female students. Other contributing factors include campus social pressure, evolving urban lifestyles, weak enforcement of institutional policies, and limited access to youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services.
In response, Darubini Poll is calling for urgent and coordinated interventions. Recommendations include stricter enforcement of university policies against exploitation, expansion of sexual health education programs, and improved access to affordable or free protection and health services.
The report also emphasizes the need for stronger economic support systems such as bursaries and student aid, as well as confidential reporting mechanisms to protect students facing exploitation.
As universities continue to expand and student populations grow, the findings highlight the need for institutions, policymakers, and society to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of these behaviors.
Darubini Poll warns that without immediate action, the trends could escalate into a broader public health and institutional crisis, with far-reaching consequences for the country’s young population.
