The Impact of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights on Community Security in Mavoko Constituency, Machakos County, Kenya
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Date
2023-10
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences
Abstract
Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) encompasses access to information, services, and decision-making autonomy. This study examined the impact of sexual reproductive health rights on community in Mavoko Constituency, Machakos County, Kenya. The study objectives were; investigating the level of SRHR awareness and emerging trends; evaluating the impact of SRHR on Community Security; and assessing ways in which SRHR can be used to improve Community Security. The study highlighted that when individuals, irrespective of their gender, have access to comprehensive SRHR services and information; they are better able to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Thus, SRHR interventions that promote gender equality, including addressing gender-based violence, female genital mutilation, child marriages, unsafe abortions, contribute to creation of secure community environment. Further, the study examined how exposure to SRHR can contribute to community security by reducing maternal and infant mortality, improving postnatal care and child health outcomes, and promoting healthy sexual relationships. The study used an explanatory convergent mixed-methods approach. Surveys were administered to adolescent girls and boys in three centers in Mavoko constituency to find out the extent of exposure to SRHR. At the same time, qualitative data were acquired through in-depth interviews with the parents, and law enforcement authorities to know the impact of awareness to SRHR (or the lack of it) to community security. This study concluded that the level of awareness about SRHR and emerging trends was low among adolescent girls and boys as well as parents. Additionally, most of the adolescents couldn’t tell if SRHR has affected their security in any way, hence the need for a campaign that is made specifically to cater to Mavoko Constituency to raise awareness. The study also recommends parental involvement in SRHR matters, institutional support for the adolescent girls and boys and finally meaningful engagement of adolescent girls and boys in SRHR initiatives within and without Mavoko Constituency.
Description
MASTER OF ARTS
in Diplomacy, Development, and International Security
Keywords
Sexual Reproductive Health Rights, Community Security, Mavoko Constituency
Citation
Gichuiri, R. W., (2023). The Impact of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights on Community Security in Mavoko Constituency, Machakos County, Kenya: Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences