Residents of Busia County are being encouraged to make use of available contraceptive methods to help with family planning. According to Busia County Director of Medical Services, Dr. Janerose Ambuchi, the uptake of contraceptives in the county remains low.
"Currently, our contraceptive uptake is at 30 percent, which is significantly lower than the national average of 57 percent," Dr. Ambuchi said during a World Contraceptive Day forum held in Nambale Subcounty on Thursday, September 26.
Dr. Ambuchi noted that some residents are hesitant to use contraceptives due to concerns about potential side effects, while others feel the need to seek permission from their spouses before deciding on a method. "Some people are unable to access health facilities to obtain contraceptives, while others fear that using them could cause sterility," she added.
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She pointed out that there are many misconceptions surrounding contraceptive use and encouraged residents to embrace them as scientifically proven methods for family planning. "We are working closely with partners and community health promoters (CHPs) to carry out extensive sensitization, with CHPs visiting households to spread awareness," Dr. Ambuchi said. She also mentioned that CHPs have been trained to provide some of these services.
Dr. Ambuchi expressed concern over the rising number of teenage pregnancies in Busia County, which increased from 18 percent in 2022 to 19 percent. She noted that Bunyala leads with 28 percent of teenage pregnancies, followed by Butula at 23.65 percent, Teso North at 23.2 percent, and Nambale at 22.9 percent. She attributed these high numbers to poverty, inadequate parental guidance, and misconceptions among the youth.
Sheila Musimbi, a resident of Nambale Subcounty, shared how using contraceptives has enabled her to plan her family effectively and provide for her children without much financial strain. "I encourage women to visit health centers to learn about the best contraceptive methods for family planning," she said.
Josephat Onyango, another resident, echoed Musimbi's sentiments and urged men to support their wives in using contraceptives. He also called on the government to increase awareness on teenage pregnancy in schools. "I appeal to my fellow men to support our wives in using contraceptives to achieve manageable family sizes, especially during these tough economic times," Onyango said. "The government should also enhance sensitization efforts in schools to educate children about teenage pregnancy early on."
