Abstract
The study examines the role of socio-economic and maternal factors on under–five child mortality in Zimbabwe. The research is based on the analysis of the 2012 population census data. A logistic regression model was employed to determine factors that significantly affect under-five child mortality. The results revealed that maternal educational level, age at first birth, marital status, sanitation and provincial location were significant determinants of under–five child mortality. Public health interventions should focus on mothers; single, formerly married, had early childbearing, uneducated, use unsafe drinking water and toilets.
Highlights
The probability of dying before reaching the age of five is estimated at 45 deaths per 1000 live births
Bulawayo Matabeleland North and South had the highest odds of under-five mortality
It is possible that the high odds of under-five mortality in the metropolitan cities (Harare and Bulawayo) than rural areas is related to the deteriorating socio*economic conditions in Zimbabwe (ZIMSTAT and ICF 2016)
Summary
The probability of dying before reaching the age of five is estimated at 45 deaths per 1000 live births. This translates into approximately 59 million childhood deaths every year throughout the world (UN 2017). Specific causes of death including pneumonia, undernutrition, diarrhoea and malaria account for 50% of the death that occurs after the first 30 days of life and before turning five years (Black et al 2010, Liu Oza et al 2015, Chadoka Mutanda and Odimegwu 2017, Black et al 2013). Studies have shown that improvements in sanitation, safe drinking water, vaccinations, and exclusive breastfeeding can reduce childhood deaths caused by diarrhoea and pneumonia (Browne and Barrett 1991, Liu et al 2015, Pradhan et al 2018)
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