Type | Journal Article - Rural Planning Journal |
Title | Self-Help Groups and Access to Sexual Reproductive Health Services and Rights Among Youth in Mtwara and Lindi Districts, Tanzania |
Author(s) | |
Volume | 17 |
Issue | 1 |
Publication (Day/Month/Year) | 2015 |
Page numbers | 45-60 |
Abstract | In Tanzania, as elsewhere in the world, adolescent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections are serious public health issues among youth. This study was conducted to assess the impact of self-help groups on access to sexual and reproductive health services and rights among youth in Mtwara and Lindi districts. Specifically, the study envisaged to (i)examine the availability and access to sexual and health reproductive services and rights among youth and (ii) examine the capacity of self-help groups in promoting access to sexual and health reproductive services and rights among youth in the study area. The study adopted a cross sectional design incorporating a longitudinal perspective. Mixed methods of data collection were used, including organizational capacity assessment, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and documentary review. The findings an increasing trend in the availability and access to sexual and reproductive services partly due availability of youthfriendly services offered in the area. The self-help groups have been instrumental change agents in sexual and reproductive health issues in their communities through peer education, life skills, public meetings, festivals, sports and games. This has contributed to reducing the number of early and unwanted pregnancies, abortions and early marriages. Overall, the study has shown that youth self-group groups‟ approach is a very effective and powerful methodology for empowering youth socially, economically and politically. |
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