CBDs: Changing Cultural and Social Norms That Affect Family Planning
Access to reproductive information and contraception remains a critical unmet need in Narok, hindering the full realization of reproductive health rights. While many family planning programs focus solely on helping women access contraceptive information and services, deeply rooted cultural norms can also influence the social acceptance of these practices. In the Maasai community, for instance, men have historically played a decisive role in family planning decisions. They are seen as the custodians of culture and tradition, and traditionally, family planning has been considered taboo—a subject that men do not typically engage in, and one where women are often expected not to take any action without their husband’s consent.
For Simon Ntuke, however, these old beliefs are becoming a thing of the past. As a trained Community-Based Distributor (CBD) under DESIP, Simon is on a mission to transform how family planning is viewed in Narok North. “I can comfortably say that the situation has changed in Narok North,” Simon says enthusiastically.
On any typical morning, you might find Simon at Fountain Mission Medical Centre, preparing his “instruments” of work—ready to make a difference. Among the 37 CBDs trained through DESIP and attached to various health facilities, Simon plays a vital role in supporting family planning access, especially for rural women of reproductive age. His efforts have reduced the need for long journeys to health facilities, easing the workload on these centers while ensuring that women receive timely contraceptive services.
But for Simon, his work goes far beyond merely providing services. He has positioned himself as a trusted male champion in the community. Through one-on-one, house-to-house visits, Simon builds strong interpersonal relationships with his clients. Recognizing the importance of engaging men, he makes it his mission to reach out to fellow men—educating them on the benefits of family planning and the importance of supporting their wives’ reproductive health. His approach has earned the trust of many husbands, who now welcome his visits to their homes for family planning consultations and referrals for long-term contraceptive methods.
Simon’s work has made a tangible difference. Many mothers, who once experienced frequent, unplanned deliveries due to a lack of knowledge, now understand the benefits of child spacing. Through his conversations, myths and misconceptions about family planning have been dispelled, and men have begun to actively participate in family planning discussions—breaking down long-standing taboos. Simon’s ongoing efforts in community forums and outreach events are gradually reshaping cultural norms, creating safe spaces where women feel supported and empowered to plan their families.
