Efficacyof Rameny radio’s ngimadhano programme in promoting the uptake of contraceptives among the women of Cham gi Wadu division in Migori county, Kenya

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to investigate the use of community radio in the promotion of contraceptive uptake in Cham Gi Wadu Division within Migori County. This was deemed as a representation of women in the rural areas of Rongo Sub-County. Community radio being a traditional mass media, has been used in behavior change campaigns to address unmet need among women in this division. Statistics indicate that most women in this division were still reluctant to have children or want to delay having a child or limit the number of children to bear while at the same time not using any modern family planning method. This study, therefore, sought to establish the efficacy of Radio Rameny‘s Ngima Dhano programme on the uptake of contraceptives among women of Cham Gi Wadu Division in Rongo Sub-County. The objectives of the study were to establish the efficacy of Ngima Dhano Community radio programme in creating awareness, on changing attitude and on acceptability of contraceptives among women in Cham Gi Wadu Division. Agenda-Setting theory by McCombs and Shaw (1972) and Knowledge, Attitude and Practices model which originated from Learning Theory (Bandura, 1796) and Diffusion of Innovation theory by Roger, (1995) informed the study. This study employed mixed method research design. Simple random sampling technique was employed to pick a sample size of 400 respondents that was arrived at using Yamane Sampling Formula (1967). Content Analysis was conducted targeting six recorded aired programmes between May-October, 2023. Purposive sampling technique was used to pick two Key Informant Interviews. The study adopted various tools, such as questionnaires, interview schedules, and coding scheme as data collection tools. Quantitative data preferred tool of analysis was descriptive statistics, while qualitative data adopted content analysis. Results presentation was in tables, graphs and textual formats, while qualitative data was presented using narratives and quotes. The study targeted reproductive health communication, formulation of policies on family planning by Government and Non-Governmental Organizations. The study indicated that community radio broadcasts have immense outcome on the uptake of contraceptives and its benefits. From the study, the Ngima Dhano programme imparted high knowledge and awareness to both listeners and the community at large. There was also an overwhelming positive attitude towards contraceptive uptake, leading to increased acceptance of contraceptives. This was attributed to through addressing biased information through programme content and listenership participation.