Sociology

Permanent URI for this collection

http://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/12345678/155

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 85

Fertility control in a cultural and gendered normative context of rural Oromia, Ethiopia: Implications for involvement of young men
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-10-01) Nega Jibat; Getnet Tadele (PhD) Haldis Haukanes (PhD) Astrid Blystad (PhD)
Background: Increasing research and policy attention is paid to fertility control in gendered and cultural normative rural context. This thesis focuses on the domains of fertility control and young men’s engagement in a less explored rural context of Ethiopia. Fertility control is a broad field entailing aspects such as sexual restrictions, contraception and induced abortion, and is in the present work explored and analyzed based on prevailing societal norms, perceptions and practices. Implications of the normative contexts for young men’s involvement in the three domains of fertility control are also examined. The theoretical framing draws on perspectives from masculinity and gender theory. Methods: Weberian-oriented and ethnographic-based qualitative research, with in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and observations as research methods, were employed in the generation and analyses of the material. The study participants consisted of community members: young men, (some) young women, sector leaders, adult religious leaders and community leaders, and health workers. The main fieldwork was carried out over an extended period of fourteen months from June 2017 to July 2018 in Nadhi Gibe District of Jimma Zone in Oromia region, Ethiopia. Study findings: The study found that cultural, gender and religious norms reinforce each other creating dynamics that work towards the maintaining of gender inequality shaping the involvement of young men in fertility control, and hence indicate manifestations of hegemonic masculinity. The most pronounced norms on fertility control are concerned about avoiding premarital sex and premarital pregnancy. Simultaneously strong social norms disapproving fertility control in marital relations were found. The involvement of young men in fertility control vary within the various aspects of fertility control. Young men are engaged in the establishing of love, sexual, and marital relations, but are less preoccupied with contraceptive use and abortion. They largely violate the restrictive social norms against premarital sexual relations and consider fertility control as the domain of women but they have significant influence on women’s choice of fertility control. Disapproving norms against contraceptive use are encountered in parallel with more approving norms and discourse that open for the use of preventive methods. Among young men the perceptions and practices pertaining to contraception differed substantially. However, there seems to be a move towards increasing tolerance and acceptance for contraceptive use. Induced abortion is strongly disapproved normatively, but is exceptionally accepted with reference to diverse arguments, ranging from saving the mother’s life to family’s economic problems. The Abortion Law of Ethiopia (2005) remains relatively restrictive, but it is permissive procedurally through clinical guidelines developed to assist healthcare workers in their abortion supportive work. Access to abortion care is partly constrained among others by healthcare providers’ tendency to refuse abortion services without the involvement of the male partner. Young men's strategies in cases of unwanted pregnancies of their girlfriends range from supportive approaches through marriage or providing abortion costs, to non supportive approaches such as forcing their girlfriends to abort, denying fatherhood or abandoning. Conclusion: The study indicates that there continues to be normative influences on fertility control and severe restrictions on young men involvement in fertility control. However, there are a number of signs of opposition against prevailing restrictive regimes, and of young people's agency to act against these restrictive normative and practical orders implying rooms for change. The study has significant academic and policy relevance in rural and youth dominated populated Ethiopia. Priority should be given to social norms and involvement of men in efforts of improving fertility control. Key words: fertility control; involvement of young men; gendered relations; hegemonic masculinity; norms of fertility; sexuality; contraception; induced abortion;
The Lived Experiences of Women Affected By Leprosyresiding in Woreda 01 Zenebework Area, Addis Ababa: A Phenomenological Study
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-12-01) Biftu Jemal; Selam Esayas (PhD)
This phenomenological qualitative study explores the lived experiences of women affected by leprosy residing in Woreda 01, Kolfe-Keranyo Sub-city, and Addis Ababa. The study delves into these women’s knowledge and perceptions of leprosy, their interactions within social networks, accessibility and treatment within public and traditional institutions, and the coping mechanisms they employ to navigate daily challenges. Using purposive sampling, in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 women with leprosy and 7 key informants, including social workers, health professionals at Alert hospital, and officials from relevant NGOs and government sectorsin Woreda 01. Additionally, Observationwas used to collect data. The data was analyzed through phenomenological analysis to capture the subjective experiences of affected women. Findings reveal a knowledge gap between scientific understanding and participants’ beliefs about leprosy's causes and transmission. The result of the study also demonstrates that women often experience strained relationships within their close social networks, such as family, neighbors due to a tendency for self-isolation prompted by fear of discrimination. Many participants also self-isolate to shield themselves from anticipated social stigma, which the community may reinforce by excluding them from events and gatherings.If leprosy symptoms are visible, society tends to discriminate against affected individuals in public institutions. Additionally, financial constraints prevent them from participating in Equb or Edir. However, some women gain strength through solidarity with peers in similar circumstances and engage in religious practices that provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. The study concludes that the intersection of social, economic, and psychological challenges imposes a complex burden on affected women. To address this issue, the finding highlights the need for a robust awareness campaign targeting both the affected and the wider community. Additionally, effective implementation of existing policies, programs and strengthening associations that support leprosy-affected women are suggested to enhance their access to services and capitalize on existing coping mechanisms.
Students' Perception of the Effect of Social Media on Their Academic Performance: The Case of Sendafa Beke Preparatory School, Oromia, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-11-01) Dafisa Basha; Taye Nigussie (PhD)
The purpose of this study was to explore how students of Sendafa Beke preparatory school perceive the use of social media (SM) on their academic performance. Many Students are impacted by the growing use of social media platforms in various parts of the world. Concerns over potential negative effects on academic performance have grown over time, as students often spend more time on social media sites than any other group. Social networking sites (SNS) are online communities of internet users who wish to interact with others about topics of shared interest, whether from a personal, professional, or academic standpoint. The increasing use of social media has led to problems like the erosion of moral principles and distractions, particularly among students who make up the bulk of users. While some studies suggest a detrimental association between social media usage and academic performance, others argue that there is no substantial impact on academic performance. This study aims to explore the students’ perception of the effect of social media on their academic performance, by using qualitative and quantitative research methods. The researcher selected an appropriate sample size for statistical accuracy and generalizability. The Sendafa Beke preparatory school had 1,107 students. For the 2023/2024 academic year, the researcher chose 336 students (175 male and 161 female), including 172 respondents from grade 11 and 164 from grade 12, based on attendance lists from their teachers. Findings indicate a mixed perception among students, viewing social media as both a valuable tool for collaboration, interactions and educational materials and a significant distraction that hinders academic focus. While many students utilize social media for study groups and resource sharing, excessive use correlates with poor time management and lower engagement in learning methods. Additionally, the emotional pressure exerted by social media influences study habits among students. Finally, parents, school teachers, school management and policy makers should play vital roles in creating awareness of how to use social media without affecting their academic performance. Keywords: - Student perception, social media, academic performance.
Vulnerability of Female Domestic Workers in the Work Environment: Employer-Employee Dynamics, and Related Factors in Hossana Town
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Lombebo Tagesse; Kassahun Assres (PhD) and Annabel S. Erlukar (PhD)
Domestic work has a long history in Ethiopia, with domestic workers making essential contributions to households and society. However, their roles are often undervalued due to factors such as socioeconomic background, gender stereotypes, low income, and limited education. The private, home-based nature of domestic work further heightens workers' vulnerability to exploitation and mistreatment. Despite its importance, research on domestic workers in Ethiopia has primarily focused on youth migration abroad, while the conditions of domestic workers within the country have received less attention. The central concern of this dissertation is to explore the factors contributing to the vulnerability of female domestic workers in Hossana town. These factors include demographic influences, brokers' involvement, parental roles, sociocultural dynamics, employer-employee interpersonal interactions, and institutional and policy-related issues. The study employs pragmatism as a philosophical framework, advocating for a mix of ontological and epistemological approaches to address existing research gaps. Combining qualitative and quantitative methods, the study uses a mixed-methods design to yield convergent findings. A concurrent approach was employed to collect data in a single phase, and convenience sampling was used due to the difficulty of accessing domestic workers. The study involved 130 female domestic workers surveyed using a structured questionnaire at licensed brokers' offices, schools, and water points. Additionally, 28 respondents, including government officials, brokers, employers, and parents, participated in interviews. The findings reveal significant exploitation and power imbalances faced by female domestic workers in Ethiopia. Extended work hours, limited leave, and restricted rest days reflect the unequal power dynamics between employers and employees, diminishing workers' autonomy and increasing their vulnerability. At the institutional level, the absence of national policies and regulations governing domestic work and a lack of standardized contracts contribute to a "decent work deficit." This leads to excessive workloads, inadequate compensation, arbitrary salary deductions, wage withholding, and financial instability for workers. Licensed brokers, along with their assistants, are frequently implicated in exploiting domestic workers, with cases of sexual harassment and coercion, sometimes involving demands for sex work. Parents play an active role in securing domestic employment for their daughters, negotiating wages, and influencing job conditions. However, their involvement often reflects a deeper power imbalance, further limiting the autonomy of domestic workers. Economic dependence on domestic work exacerbates the situation, as workers endure abuse and mistreatment due to their reliance on the benefits of employment. The community's dehumanizing perceptions of domestic workers, including labeling them as thieves, reinforce mistreatment and erode empathy. These stigmatizing attitudes contribute to a broader culture of hostility and alienation, fostering resentment among domestic workers. Employer-employee relationships are typically characterized by authority and servility, with poor communication, power imbalances, and 15 frequent mistreatment. Conflicts often arise from workers' perceived insubordination or failure to comply with employers' demands, while workers cite degrading treatment and abuse as the primary sources of tension. To address these challenges, the study advocates for developing comprehensive policy and legal frameworks to protect domestic workers. This includes enacting regulations to standardize domestic employment contracts, ensuring fair wages, and ratifying ILO Convention No. 189. Additionally, training programs on workers' rights should be implemented for employers, employees, and brokers in collaboration with relevant government agencies and social organizations. The study calls for government and stakeholder intervention to promote domestic workers' rights, raise public awareness, and provide vocational training for both domestic workers and the broader community. Key Words: Female Domestic workers, Vulnerability, Government Institutions, Licensed and Unlicensed brokers, contractual agreements, employers
Exploring the Role of Collective Efficacy and Trust in Police for Crime Prevention in Addis Ababa Neighborhoods
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Medareshaw Tafesse; Woldeab Teshome (PhD)
Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, is grappling with significant crime challenges, as highlighted by various reports and studies. For example, police data indicates that between 2013 and 2018, major predatory crimes—such as murder, assault, robbery, and burglary—increased by 43%. Despite this alarming rise in crime and its many consequences, there is a notable lack of empirical research aimed at enhancing our understanding as well as informing effective crime control measures. This research emphasizes the importance of collective efficacy—social cohesion combined with shared belief among community members in their ability to achieve common goals—and trust in police forces as vital components in crime prevention and enhancing community safety. This study adopts a pragmatist research philosophy, combining ontological and epistemological approaches to fill empirical gaps. It utilizes methodological triangulation through a convergent design that integrates quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data from 616 residents in 11 neighborhoods of Addis Ababa was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data was collected through key informant interviews and focus group discussions with residents and police and analyzed thematically. The study revealed that collective efficacy appears to play crime protective role in the study areas. Specifically, higher collective efficacy correlates with lower crime levels, as reflected in residents' perceptions of crime seriousness, fear of crime, and victimization rates. Yet, the qualitative results reveal a notable degree of collective efficacy in specific crime-stricken, disadvantaged neighborhoods, contradicting findings from developed nations that suggest crime-ridden areas lack collective efficacy. Nevertheless, these communities do not have the essential resources required for effective social control. Further, the study found that lower trust in the police and procedural justice is inversely related to how respondents perceived the seriousness of the crime in their neighborhoods and their fear of crime. The study provides compelling evidence to support the idea that collective efficacy, trust in the police, and procedural justice are crucial factors in reducing crime rates, improving safety, and fostering positive police-community relations. Thus, enhancing collective efficacy and trust in the police is essential for addressing neighborhood crime in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This approach is vital for effective community-based crime prevention strategies, creating resilient communities that can proactively address crime. Keywords: Crime prevention strategies, Community Safety, Collective efficacy, public trust in the police, social capital, Procedural justice, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
The Impact of Social Media on Political Socialization and Polarization among Young Adult in Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2023-11-01) Yeabesra Wubneh; Ezana Amdework (PhD)
This research investigates the Impact of social media on Political Socialization and Polarization among Young Adult in Addis Ababa. Employing a comprehensive approach, the study examined interview responses, conducted focus group discussions, and administered surveys to 100 participants. Utilizing descriptive statistics, the data were meticulously analysed and presented in tabular form. The survey outcomes underscore the substantial impact of social media on the political polarization of young individuals in Addis Ababa. A noteworthy trend revealed that a majority of respondents frequently engage with various social media platforms, with TikTok emerging as the predominant platform for political content consumption. Additionally, a significant percentage of participants acknowledged the significant role of social media in shaping their political perspectives, attributing it to the amplification of political polarization among the Young Adult. The study's findings indicate that a considerable proportion of participants have been exposed to highly polarized viewpoints on social media. Moreover, the research suggests that social media echo chambers and filter bubbles play crucial roles in fostering such exposure. In response to these revelations, the study proposes several recommendations to mitigate the adverse impact of social media on political polarization among young people. These recommendations encompass strengthening content moderation and fact-checking mechanisms, nurturing critical thinking skills, and advocating for platform-level policy changes and regulations. In conclusion, the study underscores the shared responsibilities of social media platform providers, governing bodies, and users in safeguarding the security and well-being of individuals within these networks. It emphasizes the need for further exploration and evaluation of interventions aimed at mitigating the detrimental effects of social media on political polarization among the Young Adult. Key Word: - TikTok, Addis Ababa, Political polarization, Political Socialization, social media, Young Adult, Impact.
Role of Local Stakeholders’ Collaboration in Preventing Child Trafficking: The Case of Damot Gale and Damot Woyde Woredas, Wolaitta Zone, SNNPR
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-06-01) Mulunesh Dargaso; Adamnesh Atnafu (PhD)
This study explores the role of local stakeholders’ collaboration for the goal of improving child trafficking prevention outcomes in Wolitta zone two woredas of Damot Gale and Damot Woyde. The idea of local stakeholders’ collaboration role organized for the aim of preventing child trafficking may generate the collaborative efforts. However little is known about how diverse local stakeholders engage in the collaboration. A local stakeholders’ collaboration role is potential strategic mechanism to prevent child trafficking. The design of this study is explorative qualitative and consisting interviews and FGD; and the analysis focused on the thematic areas of the findings. The findings reveal the key local stakeholders, the respective role of local stakeholders, the benefits of collaboration, and the challenges encountered in ensuring collaboration among stakeholders in preventing child trafficking. The findings show the weak collaboration of local stakeholders such as failure to share the annual plan, failure to conduct review meeting, lack of joint monitoring and failure to identify challenges in order to bring solutions accordingly. The research suggests implications for collaborative effort in preventing child trafficking; and the future direction for the local stakeholders’ collaboration, including the emphasis on the greater consideration of the role of local stakeholders’ collaboration within and across and the mechanism of stakeholders’ collaboration benefit in the prevention of child trafficking. A new model for stakeholders’ collaboration in response for prevention of child trafficking draws from the findings of this study. Keywords: Roles of stakeholders, local, stakeholders, collaboration, preventing, child trafficking
An Assessment of The Public Transport Accessibility And Affordability and Its Implication on Livelihoods of The Urban Poor: The Case of Cherkos Bole Arabssa, Lemmi Kura Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-07-01) Minil Taye; Kassahun Asres (Dr)
This study is conducted with the general purpose of describing and explaining the implication of inaccessibility and unaffordable on the livelihood of urban poor in Bole Arabssa, Lemmi Kura sub-city Addis Ababa. To answer all the specific objectives, the research designs use both qualitative and quantitative nature. Moreover, particular methods of research, i.e. key informant and in-depth interview, participant observation and survey are employed in the study to answer the specific objectives. In implementing the survey method, a questionnaire was developed and administered to a total sample of 200 household heads are select. As the finding indicates, a household's source of livelihood majorly is from Salary, self-employed informal and self-employed formal. Peripheral urban households’ sources of livelihood are salary and remittance, pension and house rent. To secure their source of livelihood and to perform work, households preferred Sheger Express Bus and Minibus public transport. The economic and social activities of peripheral households are in the central part of the city, thus households expected to travel more than 16km from home to the workplace. To reach the workplace the majority of households travel around 1-2 hours and late afternoon travelling hours will be double. To access the Bus terminal households must walk 2-3km. To get public transport, households waste 2-3 hours per day. Moreover, due to traffic congestion households exposed to illegal fare tariffs and a decrease in income. Public transport’s security implications are verbal harassment, physical abuse and loss of material. These problems are the result of weak Public transport regulators because they are unable to control illegal traffic increment and unable to manage the distribution of public transport accordingly to population size. On average households paid 31-45 birrs per day. This amount is not affordable with low households’ monthly income, but they should pay because they do not have an option. The Household's last option Households is to change resident location and workplace, find permanent employment and invest adequate time. Moreover, households take cut social journeys and travel strictly for essential trips as a solution to the increment of transport fares. Key words: Public Transport, Accessibility, Affordability, Livelihood, Urban Poor, Bole Arabssa
The Implicating of Air Pollution on The Socio-Economic Life of The Community: The Case of Koshe Waste Dumping Site, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-01-01) Mahlet Fassil; Taye Niggussie (PhD)
Air pollution is one of the environmental pollutions. It is caused by harmful emissions of gasfrom industry, households, waste dumping sites that contaminate the air. Addis Ababa’s wastedumping site is located at Koshe landfill. Koshe dumping site is the only dumping site availablefor the entire capital city with more than three million inhabitants. This study investigates theimplicating of air pollution on the residents found at Koshe dumping site. The study usedqualitative research methods of in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussion and analyzed the data thematically.The residences of this study area have been living with toxic environment for decades. Projectshave been established at Koshe area that can potentially minimize the pollution by reusing the landfill. The new Reppie waste to energy plant located at the landfill is one of the first wastes to energy incinerator inAfrica Even though, the Reppie waste to energy plant has a potential to generate 30% of household electricity consumption, however it has been affecting resident’s health condition. Finally, this study suggests that Koshe dumping site can be good source of generating income for young people around the place, if the concerned body collaborate with young people and make it formal collecting material from the area. Key words: Air pollution, dumping site, emission.
Overcoming Marginalization: The Case Of The Fuga In Kembata, Southern Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-12-01) Bialfew Bayou; Ezana Amdework (PhD)
The "Fuga" is one of the most marginalized communities in Ethiopia, with deep experiences ofmultidimensional deprivation and social exclusion. In spite of this painful reality of thecommunity’s past, certain remedial and developmental initiatives and interventions have beenunder way since recently. Recognizing the importance of producing research-based knowledgeabout efforts, this study was conducted with the primary goal of exploring community efforts toovercome marginalization. The study followed ethnographic methods, techniques, andprocedures. Particularly, the purposive sampling technique was helpful to select participantsamong the "Fuga" and "Wumano" communities based on the resources, knowledge, and firsthand experiences they have on the subject. And the study used observation, in-depth interviews,and informal conversations as data gathering techniques. The findings indicate that, despite thefact that marginalization is still persisting, there have been plenty of positive changes in the"Funga’s" interrelationships with the "Wumano" community and in the political, social, andeconomic lives of the "Fuga" community, changes brought about by interventions and efforts implemented by the community itself and other external actors. Such changes are connectedtoincreased access to education, the growth of material culture, and the expansion of localconstruction. The ways the "Fugas" interact with dominant communities currently reflect thelevel of the community’s empowerment. "Fuga’s" practice of good hygiene, eating clean food,and engagement in friendly social interactions with their neighbors are new ways adapted by the"Fugas." Unlike in the past, a "Fuga" is an active participant in education, community health,economy, politics/elections, employment, and land use currently. Nonetheless, the "Fuga’slonging for social development has limitations, challenges, and problems: Inter alia, thecommunity’s integration with the general society is still shallow; and in addition to thesociocultural, political, and economic concerns still apparent, the "Fuga" individual is stillresistant to change. Consequently, overcoming marginalization with the existing structures ishard, and new and innovative approaches have to be designed by government and non-government actors to ensure lasting social integration and community development for the Fuga. Keywords: Marginalization, overcoming, interventions, efforts, social integration, community development
Existing Status of Informal Settlement in Addis Ababa: The Case of Kolfe Keraniyo and Nifas Silk Lafto Sub Cityv
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-07-01) Nasise Shafi; Taye Negussie (PhD)
In many developing countries like Ethiopia unemployment, poverty, poor living condition, lack ofgood governance are the major factors for the people to hold land informally. In the case ofAddis Ababa people occupy land both in the inner city and periphery areas but nowadays peoplemore prefer the peripheral area because in such areas it’s easy to hold land without thepermission of government official by dealing with land brokers and land speculators.The mainobjective of the study was to assess the current statues of informal settlement by looking up theirpattern and extent in kolfekeraniyo and Nifas silk lafto sub city. The research employedqualitative approach by using in depth interview, focus group discussion, observation and keyinformant interview as method of data collection. Informal settlers in the study area suffer frominadequate living conditions like lack of access to basic service and poor housing condition.Current political satiation also play great role in the expansion of informal settlement. Thefinding indicates that the number of informal settlement has been increasing at alarming ratefrom time to time this is due to unaffordable land price, unemployment, people perception ofland as means of making profit and poor urban land management system corrupt bureaucrat areamong the factors. In order to control the expansion of informal settlement government shouldformulate and implement clear and inclusive urban land holding policy. Key word: informal settlement; informal settler; natures of informal settlement
Perceived Contribution of Urban Productive Safety Net Program to Graduated Household’s Livelihood Security the Case of Gullele Sub-City, Woreda 7, Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2023-07-01) Yehuala Getahun; Woldeab Teshomc (Dr.)
This study aimed to assess the perceived contribution of urban productive safety net program to graduated households' livelihood security in the case of Gullele sub-city, woreda 7, Addis Ababa. A mixed-methods research approach was applied to conduct this study. And to address the objectives of this study, a cross-sectional research design was employed. To collect data for the present study both probability and non-probability sampling methods were used. A purposive sampling technique from the non-probability sampling method was used to select key informant interviewees, whereas a simple random sampling technique from the probability sampling method was used to select respondents to the survey. Structured questionnaires were distributed to 301 sample respondents, and 276 of them were filled out completely and used for analysis. Whereas, for interview purposes semi-structured questions were prepared and sixteen key informants participated. Self-administered questionnaires and interviews from primary data sources, reports, an extensive review of related literature from journal articles, and published and unpublished theses from secondary data sources were used to collect data for this study. The collected quantitative data were analyzed with descriptive statistics using SPSS version 2020 and then qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Based on the finding of the study, UPSNP perceived by respondent as it has not contributed for most of graduated beneficiaries HHs to have secured livelihood opportunities. As result most of the UPSNP-graduated beneficiaries failed to have secured livelihood due to the spread of COVID-19 pandemic and having low financial capital, lack of loan service and work place, the last cause was supervision and support from woreda was not continou when they graduated from this program.
Perceptions and Experiences of Farmers` on Farmer Training Center Based Agricultural Extension Services In Antsokia Gemza Woreda, North Shewa Zone, Amhara Regional State:
(Addis Ababa University, 2023-11-01) Bizuye Kokobe; Abeje Berhanu (Dr.)
The main objective of this study is to investigate farmers’ perceptions and experiences regarding farmer training centers (FTCs) and the extension services provided in these centers focusing on Antsokiya Gemza Woreda North Shewa Zone, Amhara region. A ddescriptive survey research design with a mixed research approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research methods was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative sample consisted of 148 farmers and 12 development agents drawn from 4 FTCs covered by the study. In addition, 6 key informant interviews were conducted with woreda agricultural extension officers and kebele chairpersons selected from the sampled FTCs through purposive selection of the informants. The techniques of data collection for the study included questionnaire, qualitative interview guides and observation and four FGD groups’ checklists. The findings of the study indicated that most of the FTCs in the Woreda do not fulfill the basic requirements to serve as centers for farmers’ training, knowledge generation and dissemination and as sources of improved farm management practices. The result of the study further revealed training programs often lack adequate preparation and readiness, as there was no any standardized modular training provided for the farmers. The result of the study further showed that the FTCs did not provide the necessary improved agricultural extension services like new irrigation system livestock improved mechanism and did not help the farmers improve their welfare by increasing productivity. Moreover, the study found that lack of infrastructural facilities and materials, inadequacy of practical training, budget constraints, low community participation and lack of support from concerned stakeholders were the major obstacles hindering the implementation of FTC-based agricultural extension program. To improve FTCs performance, it is essential that FTCs should be strengthened in terms of trained manpower, adequate infrastructure, training facilities, and materials.
The Role of Microfinance in Enhancing Youth Employment Opportunities: The Case of Addis Credit and Saving Institution S.C in Yeka Sub City, Addis Ababa
(AAU, 2009) Girma, Mulye; Teshome, Weldab (PhD)
Urbanism and living conditions in Debre Markos town
(Addis Ababa University, 2014-11) Desyalew, Kasahun; Admassie Ph d, Yeraswork
Urbanization has become a major global phenomenon and rhe de~'liny of our planet. This process is highly facilitated by population growlh. technological and injrastrucillral progress. I, has a strong potential to bring profound changes in the entire living condition of residents both posillvely and negatively although the former by far Ollt ways the later. This paper analyzes 'he stale of urbanism and living condition of residents in Dcbre Markos /oll'n; the capillJ/ of Eastern Cojjom Zone of Amhara regional sla/e. The general objective of fhis study is /0 assess fhe socio economic and housing siluOlion of residents oj Debre Markos tOWI1. A cross-sectiollal srudy design was used. 71lc stlldy employed both quantitative and quolillllive research methods, flamely household survey, in-depth interviews, key informant interview and observation. A 10tal of 38./ sample household heads were se/ected through systematic random sampling for Ihe sun'ey. On lOp of this in deplh inlerview was employed with 8 resideflls and one key informam from town adminislratiOlf office. The findings revealed thai in Ihe past few years the town has wilnessed a tremendous spalial expansion as a result of the hOI/sing demand created by the growing populalion. 11 has also shown a significant improvement in terms of infrastructure and small and micro enterprise developments. Service providers are mushrooming and the cons/ruction seClOr is in progress. The town is characterized by significant homogeneity in terms of language and religion indicating the fact that it isfarfrom being a cosmopolitan center. Local social organizations are negatively influenced by the urbanization process. Regarding 011111101 income 11I0S/ of the respondents are found 10 be 101l'-income urban households. 11 also revealed that the mojorily of households had access to an improved source of drinking water. /n terms of quality, the large majority of houses are of substandard class thai is mainly buill out of wood and mud maleria/s. Unemployment, absence of publiC places and inappropriale sonitalion and waste mwwgemenl are identified as challenges for the de\'elopmenl of the town as a growing urban cemer. The silldy recommended the need to imprm'e the environmemo! and physical conditions of the area through public participation and further strengthening of Ihe role of micro sand small scale enterprises to create employment opportunities.
Beliefs and Practices of Traditional Medicine among Women in Reproductive Health Care: A study in Damot Woyde Woreda, Wolaytta Zone
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-05) Paulos, Yared; Murugan (PhD), P.
This study has been conducted with the major arm of investigating the beliefs and practices of traditional medicine in reproductive health care by emphasizing on rural areas. The reproductive health issues covered in this study are: prenatal care, delivery care, postnatal care, birth spacing service, abortion and STDs. In order to investigate the beliefs and practices, this study has employed a crosss ectional qualitative approach; and the data are collected by making use of in-depth interviews, FGDs and key -informant interviews. The study subjects were selected purposively with the help of health extension workers of each kebeles. Sixteen in-depth interviews with practitioners of traditional medicine; twenty-two and sixteen in-depth interviews with married and unmarried women in reproductive age, resp ectively; two FGDs consis ting of seven participants and two consisting of six participants with married and unmarried women (two with each of them); key informant interviews with health extension workers, a midwife in Badessaa health center, two senior citizens who are knowledgeable about the practice of reproductive health in the area, have been conducted to collect the primary data. Prenatal care, delivery care, abortion serVlce and treatment of STDs are among the major services that the rural women get from traditional medicine practitioners in relation to reproductive health; whereas birth spacing/control and postnatal care serVlces are among the services that are not as such significant. None of the reprodu ctive health problems is believed to be caused by supernatural forcers). And the practice of traditional medicine is not accompanied by the belief that the issues should be addressed by the practitioners because they are caused by the forces. Besides, it is widely believed that the knowledge that the practitioners have is learned from their parents, than being given by supernatural forcers). Practitioners known as TBA; TBA and wogesha; TBA and herbalist; TBA, herbalis t and wogesha; herbalist; and herbalist and wogesha are the practitioners who are engaged in provis ion of the reproductive health services. Traditional medicine and its practitioners have decisive place in the provision of reproductive health services in the rural areas.
Situational Analysis of Orphans and Their Vulnerability: the Case of Woldiya Town, Northern Wollo
(Addis Ababa University, 2011-05) Tirfie, Ashenafi; Berhan, Abeje
This study attempts to explore the cause for the presence orphans, the problems of orphans and the efforts made by caregivers, government, non-governmental as well as community based organization in Woldiya woreda of North Wollo. it also assesses orphans' relation to caregivers and their experience in attempt to cope with/survive the problems. Integrated model of resilience was employed as a conceptual fram ework to address the research problems.
Traditional Beliefs and Practices towards Infant Care and Asociated Health Impacts: A study in Finoteselam, west Gojjam
(Addis Ababa University, 2013-06) Alifnur, Mebratu
Maintaining sound health and weI/being is the prime concern ojparenting el'erYlI'here. Bllt the 1'(>01 health situation of inionts in Finoteselam is one among the worst in the COlll7tl")'. Morbidity and injury remain high in this age group due to the inappropriate and less qualitv care prol'/ded to in/(lI1t.s', This stU(~V was designed to understand iJ?iunt care beliejs' and practices that have an /1I/jJact on health il1 Finoteselam. Cultural heliej\' and practices associated to feeding, health lIf(magelllent, p,sychosocial care, and hygiene care have an extensive impact on this regard The studl employed qualitative method. It was conducled using an interview data (l.JO lactating mol hers (whose surviving baby aged belween .J I day and 12 month) and 6 volunlary health workers il1 addition 10 focus group results with heterogeneous group of participants (elderly WOlllen, TBAs, herbalists and faith healers) frol11 both urban and rural kebeles of Finoteseloll/. The collected data through interviews and FGDsji'om February 08 to March22 lVas thell/ot/coll}' (//wlv::ed fhe result cl analysis showed Ihat a number of infallt care related beliefs' and practices ajfect injl.lI/t heallh in Finoteselam both in urban and rural kebeles. While SOl1le of them have no known destructive elfect, others are found to be dangerous to health. Ifealth damaging beliejv alld practices include those which restrict exclusive breastfeeding (beliejs' such as breast milk II1suflicienC\', fear ofabdol71inal pain and thirst on babies in feeding sole breastmilk) , behaviors ofleedillg illfants wilh less nutritious food items, beliefs which delay or hasten the timing in the introduction of complementary foods, behaviors that endanger personal, domestic and environmental hvgiene (such as open defecation and urination, absence of water treatmel7l at hOllie, lack o/.fi'equent hand washing and bathing) , customs which result in misconstruction of the caules of infant health prohlems (beliej\' on supernatural and spiritual/orees) and diseases ,specific belief.\· that initiate unfilling or delayed care seeking
Impacts of Rural Physical Infrastructural Expansion on the Livelihood Situation of Rural People: The Case of Machakel Woreda, East Gojjam Zone
(Addis Ababa University, 2013-11) Kassie, Aschale; Birhanu (Phd), Abeje
The aim of this study ;s to analyze (he im/xICb' of physical rural ilifrastructural expansion on the livelihood contexts of rllral people wilh por/ieu/ar reference 10 rural people of Mac/Ulkel Woreda, ElIsl Gojjam zone of AmhoT(l regional stale. The study employed bOlh ql/ll/illltive and quantilalive research approaches. Different loa's of daw col/eelion were lri(mgu/ated. Results of the sllldy lIrc there/ore: based on in-deplh household and key informant interviews, focus group disclissions. field ohservalions lind household survey. So as 10 broadly analyze lhe issue under study, related literatures have been critically reviewed and !)lIS[(linable rura/livelihoods approach as an analylicallool has been lIsed The study show~' thai fhe government expansion of physical infrastructures in to rural area.~ has enabled rural people diversffy their income sources through engagement in variety of livelihood activities. People have created new livelihood activities helped by newly expanded physical infrllstructures. Rural peoples' access to livelihood assets in the study area was found to have been improved (md people acquired several kinds of assets Fam the time of physical infrastrucl/lral eXlxmsion onwards. 711e slUdy also found Ihat physical infrastructural expansion contributed a lot in the redllclion of poverty in rural areas in a number of ways. I) Rural people are able to widen Iheir income sources thereby gelling betler income. As people engaged in new income generating activities, they could eam good incomes which enabled Ihem satisfy Iheir basic needs. save cash money and reserve in kind, pursue further livelihood aclivities. cover cosls of services (such as hea1lh expemes), and so on. 2) Physical infrastruclllres also contributed 10 the health status of rural people. Pure drink water and rural roads as pre· requisites for health posts are essential for healthy and productive rllral man power. 3) Physical infrastructures are also imporlOnt jor raised awareness and good educational profile ofrllral people in the study area. The study idenlified both negative and positive impacts of physical infrastrllclural expansion on the social life of the people in the rural area. These impacls were on social networks and institutions, on the relationship among rllral people themselves and on the relationship between rural people and surrounding urban residents. For instance, the unbalanced distrib ution of physical inFaslructure across rural localities created inter and intra.kebele di~placemenls, that in tlll"/1 affe,:ts peoples 'involvement in the social organizations of idir, iquib and mahiber. Rural people created and slrengthen their ties, though some others' relationship was disrupted during and after the expansion of infrastructure. The social relationship between rllral people of the study area and sUl'I'olllu/ing lIrban dwellers was also found to be facilitated.
Living in a Serodiscordant Relationship: Knowledge, Challenges, and Coping Strategies among HIV Discordant Couples in Addis Ababa
(AAU, 2011-05) Tadesse, Daniel; Tadele, Getnet. PhD
Background: HIV discordant couples, where the male and female have different HIV test results, are the largest at-risk group for transmission in sub-Saharan Africa. Research in 12 countries in eastern and southern Africa shows that prevalence of discordant couples is high. ranging bel1Veen 36% and 85% (UNAIDS Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic: 2010).So far. most studies on discordant couples emphasized on the bio-medical aspect of the couples 'with onlyfew oj'them concerned with hovlI the couples managed the discordance. The present study shaded light on the pS,vcho-social aspect qfliving in discordant relationshljJ. Aims: The major aim of this study was to explore the experiences of HIV discordant couples in a steady relationship. Methods: A qualitative approach was utitized to achieve the o~iective of this study. Twenty two in-depth interviews were conducted with discordant couples and with an intention to elaborate in more detail the experiences of discordant couples; two oral histOlY case studies were conducted. These two cases were selectedfrom the in-depth interviews as they were found to be exemplary cases reflecting the communalities among discordant couples. Further, ten in-depth interviews were carried with key informants in order to assess health professionals' and counselors' explanation for HIV discordance and their experience with discordant couples. The samples were drawn using purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using the successive approximat ion approach. Findings: The study revealed that there were widespread misconceptions about J-/IV discordance among both HIV discordant couples and key informants (health care providers and counselors). These misconceptions in turn made HIV discordant couples to engage in risky sexual behaviors. HIV discordant couples experienced varieties of psycho-social problems such as fear of infecting and being infected, blame, neglect, guilt, and uncertainty. The couples also faced challenges regarding their sexual life like exhaustion with condom use, reduction in sexual desire and pleasure, reduction infrequency of sex and alteration in reproductive plan. Safer sex, coitus interrupts, non-penetrative sex, abstinence, communication, disclosure, silence, secrecy, cooperation, and religion were found to be the coping strategies of the couples. Finally, it was found that for some couples the presence of HIV did not bring any change in their relationship. Conclusion: Commonly, it might be assumed that at least the negative partner in HIV discordant re lationship makes every effort to avoid infection. But, the .findings oj' the present study confirmed that this is a mere speculation that significant number of informants failed to employ any preventive strategies and if any some of them were found to be ineffective like, coitus interrupts. Several factors which operate at different levels may contribute to such risk taking behavior indicating the utility of an integrated model to understand individuals ' health behavior. The extensive misconceptions about HIV discordance and ineffective coping strategies utilized by the informants suggesT the needfor micro, mezzo, and macro level interventions

Browse

Recent Submissions