UNICEF Reveals Morocco Makes Progress on Child Mortality Rate

A recent report by UNICEF finds Morocco’s under-five child mortality rate fell by 4.8 percent from 81 deaths per 1,000 live births in 1990 to 17 in 2022. 

The decline mirrors global trends. The global under-5 mortality rate declined by 51 percent since 2000.

“This notable achievement has been driven largely by sustained commitment on the part of governments, organizations, local communities, health care professionals and families,” the report stated.

However, there remains a large divide in child mortality outcomes.  

The report notes that a child born in sub-Saharan Africa is on average 18 times more likely to die before turning five than a child born in Australia and New Zealand. 

“When children are born into the poorest households or a fragile and conflict-affected setting, their chances of survival plummet,” the report states.

To halt preventable child deaths across all communities UNICEF says focused investments in accessible, high-quality healthcare are imperative. This encompasses skilled healthcare providers during childbirth, prenatal and postnatal care, support for small and sick newborns, preventive measures like vaccinations, and diagnostic and curative interventions addressing major causes of childhood mortality.