Utilizing Citizen Generated Data to enhance Women's Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services in Somalia: Insights, Barriers, and Pathways Forward

Abstract

Purpose: This study was undertaken to capture citizen’s insights on practical steps that individuals, families, communities, and institutions could take to support the improvement of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services in Somalia. This includes raising awareness of issues affecting women's access to SRH, such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Methodology: This research employed a qualitative research design, utilizing semi-structured radio questions distributed through various channels such as radio promos, mini-dramas, interactive radio shows, and Short Messaging Service (SMS) on mobile phones. To enhance and validate the findings from the radio series, thirty Focus Group Discussions (FGD) involving 270 'hard-to-reach' participants were conducted across all Federal Member States (FMS) of Somalia, excluding Somaliland. Collaborating with 20 radio stations, a total of 4,268 participants from across Somalia were involved in this study. The qualitative data obtained was categorized into themes, and the subsequent information was analyzed using content analysis methodology for qualitative data, as well as descriptive statistics and inferential analysis through statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 25 and excel for quantitative data. The presentation of the data included the use of tables and figures. Findings: This study outlined key challenges in accessing quality SRH services for women in Somalia. Priorities included enhancing healthcare infrastructure and availability of SRH professionals, along with emphasizing health education on reproductive health and family planning. Food insecurity's impact, especially among displaced populations, was noted. GBV and FGM were highlighted, calling for comprehensive survivor care and male involvement in prevention. Collaboration between schools and the private sector was proposed for menstrual hygiene. Men's support for SRH access was deemed crucial. Addressing stigma around SRH access, GBV, and FGM was stressed, urging comprehensive awareness campaigns and improved healthcare provision for survivors. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Addressing women's SRH in Somalia involves investing in healthcare infrastructure, expanding health education programs, ensuring access to nutritious food, and engaging men as allies in promoting women's SRH rights. Moreover, efforts to combat stigma, GBV, and FGM must be culturally sensitive and inclusive, involving religious and community leaders, and addressing underlying socio-economic factors contributing to these issues.