Household decision making and child survival status in Uganda

Allen Kabagenyi, Makerere University
Olivia Nankinga, Makerere University

The study aimed at exploring the influence of women’s decision making at the household on child survival status. The data set used herein is based on the 2006 (UDHS), specifically on 5004 women who had given birth 5 years prior to the survey (UBOS, 2007). Results present variations in child survival status by mothers’ socio-economic characteristics. Logistic regression analysis shows women who make decisions on major household purchases and on their own health were more likely to have their children survive. Children born to women in marital relationships and in households where men make decision on the major household purchases were more likely to lose a child. In comparison, children born to women who were formerly married were 6 times less likely to have their children survive. The study suggests the need for women empowerment, education and provision of income generating activities to increase on their purchasing power.