BRIDGING RELIGIOUS BELIEFS AND MATERNAL HEALTH: HUMAN-CENTRED DESIGN IN BAUCHI STATE

Abstract

Maternal health in Bauchi State faces significant challenges due to socio-religious norms that hinder modern healthcare practices, with misconceptions surrounding family planning, childbirth spacing, and women’s autonomy in healthcare decision-making contributing to poor health outcomes for mothers and newborns. This study aimed to analyze the socio religious factors influencing maternal health, evaluate the role of participatory communication strategies in behaviour change, and assess the impact of engaging religious leaders in health advocacy. Using Human-Centred Design (HCD) principles, the Albishirin Ku radio drama served as an innovative participatory intervention, involving religious leaders, healthcare providers, and community members in co-creating culturally and religiously aligned health messages. The study used a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the Albishirin Ku radio drama's impact on maternal health in Bauchi State, collecting data through interviews, focus groups, surveys, and feedback from religious leaders, healthcare providers, women, and community members. Findings indicate a 35% increase in antenatal care attendance, a 40% rise in acceptance of childbirth spacing, and enhanced women’s autonomy in healthcare decision-making, highlighting the effectiveness of integrating participatory methodologies with faith-based advocacy to drive sustainable behaviour change.