Title: Reproductive rights among women in Kenya.

POPLINE Document Number: 149945

Author(s):

Khasiani SA

Source citation:

[Unpublished] 1992. 22 p.

Abstract:

In response to high fertility rates in Kenya, the basic human right of women to contraceptive information and services is being emphasized. This paper examines direct as well as indirect legislation influencing women's reproductive rights. It discusses a woman's right to regulate her fertility and identify the existing legislation and cultural practices which directly impede this right by suggesting strategies for eliminating or minimizing their negative impacts. It is noted that there is no specific legislation on family planning information dissemination, on the manufacture and distribution of contraceptives, on the provisions for sterilization, on abortion, and on the health-legal aspect of fertility regulation in the country. Thus, other Acts are used as counteractions. However, these are found to be restrictive to some aspects of the issues. They also constrain women from exercising their rights of access to and use of contraception.

Keywords:

Kenya
Critique
Reproductive Rights
Women
Family Planning
Legislation
Developing Countries
Africa, Eastern
Africa, Sub Saharan
Africa
Human Rights
Demographic Factors
Population