In this paper, a scheme for decentralized robust control for control affine nonlinear interconnected systems using linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) is presented. Based on the Lyapunov theory, sufficient conditions for closed-loop stability of a nonlinear system, reference input tracking, and disturbance attenuation over its operating-range are obtained. Then, achieving these sufficient conditions are formulated as local LMI optimization problems. By solving the appropriately defined local problems, provided the obtained sufficient conditions are satisfied, the closed-loop stability, input tracking, and disturbance attenuation over the operating-range of the system are guaranteed. The designed controller is linear whose implementation is straightforward. An example is given to illustrate the proposed methodology. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.