PREDICTORS OF UNDER–FIVE CHILD MORTALITY IN ZIMBABWE

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.