International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Information and Communications Technology (ICT) has been recognized as an important tool for improving access to health information and linking communities to broader healthcare networks and diseases. Research shows that ICT improves antenatal care attendance, nutritional awareness, timely health-seeking behaviour, and skilled birth delivery, particularly among underprivileged women who otherwise might lack access to formal healthcare channels. Despite the overwhelming benefits, the Utilization of IKS and ICT in seeking healthcare remains sub-optimal in Ebonyi State.
Objective: This study investigated how the use of ICT and IKS influence accessing maternal and health child care information and its effectiveness by pregnant women in Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Method: A mixed-method research design was adopted, combining a survey of 383 pregnant women with three Focus Group Discussions conducted across selected Local Government Areas in the state. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data from the FGDs were analyzed thematically. Results: The findings indicate that pregnant women in Ebonyi State rely on both IKS and ICT as complementary sources of maternal and child health information. Indigenous sources such as traditional birth attendants and community elders remain influential due to cultural trust and accessibility, while ICT tools, particularly mobile phones and radio, enhance access to timely health information and updates. However, the effective utilization of ICT is constrained by poor network coverage, high data costs, low digital literacy, and unreliable power supply. The study also found that cultural beliefs shape how ICT-based health messages are interpreted and applied, sometimes influencing care-seeking behaviour.
Conclusion: The study concludes that improving maternal and child healthcare in Ebonyi State requires the integration of culturally sensitive communication approaches with ICT-based strategies.
Unique Contribution: this study have offered new insight on the usefulness and efficacy of Information communication technology to seek reliable information on maternal and child health communication initiatives. Thus, it is expected that policy makers and healthcare practitioners will find this fresh insight planning future advocacy programmes on maternal and child healthcare.
Key Recommendation: It, therefore, recommends strengthening ICT infrastructure while actively engaging traditional birth attendants and community leaders in the design and delivery of culturally responsive maternal and child health communication initiatives.