Effects of Monitoring Processes on the Quality of Birth and Death Registration Services in Uganda: A Case Study of Kitgum District Local Government

Abstract

Birth and death registration (BDR) is an inalienable human right for everyone in order to protect the rights of children from exploitation, abuse and those affected by HIV and AIDS. The study sought to establish the the effects of monitoring processes on the quality of birth and death registration services in Uganda with following objectives: To describe the monitoring process, examine the effect of resource availability and to assess the effects of the legal framework on the quality of BDR services among children of 0-5 years olds in Kitgum district. To achieve the above objectives, the study adopted an explanatory case study design where both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in four Sub counties in Kitgum District with a sample size of 95. Data was analysed using both quantitatively and qualitatively using descriptive (SPSS), inferential and content analysis respectively. The study found out that monitoring process, resources and legal frame works have a positive effect on the quality of BDR services delivery. Finally the study recommends that there should be development of national birth registration policy clearly specifying the roles and responsibilities of government and other stakeholders, with a view to streamlining registration implementation and reliable funding. Also there should be development of a national strategic plan for the entire birth registration programme with clear targets, indicators and a specific monitoring plan at all levels and structured into the broad frameworks of government programmes for continuity and sustainability.