ZAMBIA has seen a big drop in the number of babies dying within the first month of life.
According to the Zambia Demographic and Health Survey, neonatal deaths have reduced from 27 per 1,000 live births in 2018 to 17 per 1,000 in 2024.
However, being born too early (prematurity) is still the main cause of death among newborns and babies under one year old.
Speaking in Lusaka during World Premature Day, Health Minister Elijah Muchima said the numbers show that Zambia is improving, but more work still needs to be done.
His speech was delivered by Lusaka Province Health Director, Simulyamana Choongo.
Muchima said the country needs to invest more in the care of pregnant women and newborns.
He stressed the need to detect risky pregnancies early and to make sure hospitals have the right equipment to handle complications caused by premature birth.
“While we celebrate the decline in neonatal deaths, we cannot ignore that prematurity still takes far too many young lives. Every baby born too soon deserves access to quality care and support,” he said.
To help improve survival rates, the Ministry of Health has launched the Kangaroo Mother Care Guidelines, which will help mothers and health workers use skin-to-skin care to keep preterm babies warm and healthy.
“These items will be deployed to hospitals in Lusaka, Mongu, Petauke and Kapiri Mposhi to strengthen the care of premature infants,” he said.
The ministry has also received important medical equipment such as CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators and infusion pumps. These will be sent to hospitals in Lusaka, Mongu, Petauke and Kapiri Mposhi to improve care for premature babies.
Muchima also encouraged communities, especially men to support pregnant women and newborns.
“Support from families and communities is critical. Early antenatal care, follow-up visits, and active participation in childbirth and postnatal care can save countless lives,” stated the minister.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba, November 17, 2025
