Sampling

Participant recruitment was carried out through a mixed-sampling approach, including both purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Informants were purposively selected based on the questions emerging from the on-going analysis of collected data. Respondents were selected to ensure that all social groups were represented (maximum variation), regardless of local hierarchy or locally perceived expertise. In addition, snowball sampling was used to enhance participants’ trust and confidence in the research team when information was needed on sensitive subjects. Information about the respondents was collected and categorized in relation to relevant criteria, such as gender, age, social standing, trial participation and refusal, and role within the village [32].