About the project

A case study on the significance of Remafi (Lutheran diaconal project) services related to SDG3 (Sustainable Development Goal 3) or “good health and wellbeing” for women, provided by trained TBAs, in rural Madagascar. Recently (2019), the District Health Unit in the study area (Anjamanga commune) acknowledged that institutional births rate is increasing because of Remafi work, while in other rural communes, many mothers remain faithful to home deliveries‒practiced by unskilled caregivers like matrons, causing maternal death. Thanks to an innovative game-changer called diakonia, which is an integral part of Jesus’ mission as well as the Church, entrusted to Remafi, several households have experienced an healthy behavioural change. There are some factors of academic interest within this example of transformative diakonia. The study objective consists then, to investigate comparable factors shaping the reproductive health behaviours among the project beneficiaries. The central question that one tries to answer here is, what qualitative, quantitative and diaconal significance does the way the MLC (Malagasy Lutheran Church)‒through Remafi, use to address SDG3 focussing on women wellbeing? For this purpose, an audit applying an exploratory sequential design in mixed methods research will be held. Thus, an exploratory qualitative method will be followed by a quantitative assessment and finalized by a triangulation of the resulting data. After data collection and compilation, firstly, the thematic content analysis and the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) will work with some relevant theories and concepts in diaconal studies such as theory of diakonia, IRHAP’s (International Religious Health Assets Program) and Aadland’s concepts, to evaluate all qualitative data. Secondly, the epidemiologic method along KAP survey (Knowledge, Attitude and Practices) will address quantitative data. And thirdly, a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) will fit into a triangulation process of both data. The findings of thesis may bring a practice-based knowledge useful, in health sector, for improving the ways and professional practices addressing SDG3.

Background

Research group