An assessment of factors affecting rural youths in accessing and using reproductive health education and health services: a case of Arumeru district Arusha region

This study investigated the challenges facing rural youths in accessing and using the reproductive health education and health services provided in Arumeru District. Four research OBJECTIVES guided the study. Data were collected from three secondary schools, four health centres in Arumeru District and parents within the District. The study sample comprised of 82 respondents, including students, health officials and parents. The methods used for data collection included questionnaires, interviews (face-to-face) and document search. Data was collected and analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The study findings revealed that youths in Arumeru District faced challenges in accessing and using reproductive health education and health services. Lack of knowledge, accessibility and social-cultural values appeared to be the major problems hindering youths in utilizing the health services. Also the unwillingness of youths to use the health centres for help due to fear of being embarrassed, the unfriendly treatment, and their confidentiality being violated. Also, parents seemed to be slow in talking to youths concerning reproductive health matters. Hence, the study recommends that the community of Arumeru should be sensitized on the right of youth reproductive health education and services. It should improve the quality of youth-friendly services through the formation of a youth unit in health centres as well as the formation of youth clubs in schools and in villages.