In Africa, at least 25 percent of all deaths in children under the age of five are mostly within the first month. 75 percent of these deaths have been reported during the first week. Each year, 2.6 million children die before they turn five across Africa. In 2023, Austin Demby stated that these deaths of these children are heartbreaking because they are preventable and treatable.
According to a 2023 report by UNICEF, in Eastern and Southern Africa, 45 million children are at risk of malnutrition, poor health, displacement & learning due to climate crisis.
In Africa, infectious diseases need to be addressed urgently, particularly among children. Malnutrition, lack of clean water, inadequate sanitation and lack of access to medical treatment are the major causes of severe diseases in children.
At the same time, Malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis are common in children. This can be addressed with proper medical treatment and awareness programs about child health.
Similarly, chronic illnesses including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer are rising in Africa, attributed to lifestyle. Also, many African countries lack proper healthcare particularly in rural areas.
Also Read: Why Africa Should Protect Her Children
On November 20, World Children’s Day is celebrated to recognize the rights of children globally including healthcare, good nutrition, good living and quality education.
Protecting African Children
Over 110 million people worldwide have been displaced, in which half are children. Malnutrition affects more than 45 million children each year globally (IRC).
According to UNFPA, African countries have the highest maternal mortality ratio in the world. Importantly, maternal mortality rates vary from country to country.
Adolescent pregnancies are common in Africa. For example, in Western and Central Africa, child marriage exists on a large scale, violating the basic human rights.
Also Read: How Africa Can Ensure Access to Basic Education
The dropout rate among girls in schools is rising because of early marriages. Consequently, this further impedes sustainable development.
UNICEF states that Western and Central Africa countries have the highest rate of child marriages. It is estimate that about 41 percent of girls marry before reaching the age of 18 in African regions.
In addition, Relief Web argues that Africa is home to 130 million child brides, both girls under the age of 18 who have already married and adult women who were married as children.
In Africa, some countries have launched successful programs to overcome the problems of child marriages. Similarly, health awareness programs have successful stories in African regions.
Social media is essential in promoting awareness and child safety.
The Way Forward
Because of the high rate of child marriages, the new generation is facing severe issues of health. Parents’ lack of knowledge on quality of food and medical treatment are common causes of severe diseases in the children.
It is important that child health education be included as a compulsory subject at school level so that youth can learn about child development before they become parents.
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