ETHIOPIA: ON TRACK TO MDG 4?

Sunday, 25th of September 2011

ETHIOPIA: ON TRACK TO MDG 4?

In 1990, Ethiopia’s under-five mortality was at 204 per 1000 livebirths. Just published figures from the most recent Ethiopian DHS show that the current figure is 88. Will Ethiopia make the 2015 target of 2/3 decline in under-five mortality? The answer will come from progress, especially in the three regions (Amhara, Oromia and Southern Nations) which make up 80 percent of the nation’s population.

Readers wishing to see the data should view the webpage of the Central Statistical Agency, with summary DHS results at http://www.csa.gov.et/docs/EDHS%202011%20Preliminary%20Report%20Sep%2016%202011.pdf

The data show urban/rural differentials and measles vaccination coverage figures which, if confirmed by EPI surveys, indicate the need for improvement.

Child spacing has not yet approached its full benefits in Ethiopia, except among urban and well educated women. Can sensitization and wider availability of family planning services close the gap between the urban middle class and the rural majority?