Abstract

This research evaluated the social, economic and cultural factors that influence access and
utilization of sexual and reproductive health services under decentralization in Kampala,
Uganda. It examined social, economic and cultural factors that limit access and utilization
of SRH. Kyanja parish in Nakawa division which is located in Kampala district was
purposively selected as the study area. A purposive and simple random sampling
techniques were used in selecting 77 respondents from the 5 zones in the parish. The
study was cross- sectional and it employed both qualitative and quantitative methods of
data collection. The results of the study indicated that decision making in households
especially on where and when to go for maternal health care, household’s decision, and
control over physical and financial resources are mostly undertaken by males (husbands).
Women’s level of decision making is minimal due to gender and cultural norms and
practices that prohibit them to do so. This combined with the beliefs that led to delays in
seeking for SRH can lead to complications and even death either the baby or mother. Basing
on the findings, the following are recommended; There is need to address the existing
gender and social cultural factors that limit women’s liberation, through empowering
women economically, income generating projects to enable them have resources to seek
care, health education, community sensitization, and teaching of mothers on the
importance of SRH more so antenatal care visits.