Microfinance interventions have been implemented in various settings to address financial inclusion and socioeconomic disparities, particularly in urban slums where access to reproductive health services is often limited. The research employs mixed-methods, including surveys and focus group discussions (FGDs) among participants enrolled in microfinance programmes. Data were collected from to and analysed using thematic analysis for qualitative data and linear regression models for quantitative data. Analysis revealed a significant increase of 35% (β = 0. 35, p < 0. 01) in the number of reproductive health services offered by providers within microfinance-supported slums compared to non-participating areas over five years. Microfinance models can positively influence service availability but require tailored interventions to ensure equitable access and sustainability. Policy makers should consider integrating microfinance with reproductive health programmes to promote comprehensive development in urban slums. Future research could explore the long-term effects of these interventions on community well-being.
Ochola et al. (Tue,) studied this question.