Regional Variations in Childhood Mortality in Zimbabwe

Despite the general reduction in childhood mortality in Zimbabwe since 1980 estimates from the 1992 Census showed substantial district variations, which were related to a combination of the effects of variations in natural agro-ecological conditions and the historical spatial patterns of socioeconomic development.

Abstract

Despite the general reduction in childhood mortality in Zimbabwe since 1980, estimates from the 1992 Census showed substantial district variations. A zone of high mortality could be clearly identified along the border with Mozambique in the east and north-east, and along the border with Zambia in the north-west. The south-west, covering Matebeleland North and South and part of the Midlands, was generally characterised by low childhood mortality. The spatial variations in childhood mortality were related to a combination of the effects of variations in natural agro-ecological conditions and the historical spatial patterns of socio-economic development. Relatively strong relationships existed between district childhood mortality levels and the level of fertility and level of education. Cultural factors, and variations in the natural physical and climatic conditions, which in turn related to the incidence and prevalence of tropical diseases (such as malaria) also influence regional mortality levels in Zimbabwe.