The role of gender inequities in women’s access to reproductive health services: a population-level study of Simiyu Region Tanzania

This study by Amref Health Africa, supported by Global Affairs Canada, explored how gender dynamics affect women’s access to reproductive health services in Tanzania’s Simiyu Region. Through a Gender Needs Assessment conducted in five districts, the study identified gender inequality—manifested through restrictive social norms, limited decision-making power, unequal roles and responsibilities, and poor access to resources—as a major barrier to women’s utilization of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) services. Qualitative data from focus group discussions and interviews with 129 participants across three districts revealed that men’s and boys’ roles are more valued, leaving women and girls with limited autonomy and time to seek care. The study concludes that addressing these gender-based barriers through community sensitization and empowering women in decision-making is essential to improving access to RMNCAH services and achieving gender equity in health.

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