Understanding Nomadic Realities: Case Studies on Sexual and Reproductive Health in Eastern Africa

Understanding Nomadic Realities presents studies from what is known as so called “hard to reach areas” –Afar Ethiopia, Maasai in Kenya and Tanzania, and other pastoralist groups in Tanzania. Health professionals and planners explore both sides of the on the one hand are the cultural and local beliefs in the context of sexual and reproductive health, on the other are the day-to-day challenges of making reproductive health services accountable and responsive, especially to young pastoralist girls and women. All authors were active with the Nomadic Youth Project of the African Medical and Research Foundation (AMREF) in Africa.

This book consists of three parts. In the first part “Beliefs and Values”, the authors show how cultural values, gender relations and religious beliefs influence maternal health, uptake of family planning, prevalence of female genital cutting and practices around childbirth. In “Pathways to Childbirth” the different actors and factors that impact on pregnancy and delivery are presented for Afar and Maasai. Also there is a call for improved community based health information in Tanzania.

“Power to Decide”, the third part, showcases studies of power relations and decision-making processes among the different nomadic groups. Men, mothers-in-law and religious leaders are among the most important authorities in the realm of reproductive health, sometimes without any knowledge and regardless of the desires and needs of the women and girls.