Impact of immunization on child mortality in Sub-Saharan African countries: System GMM approach

Abstract

This study was driven by the relatively persistent high under-five mortality rates and declining immunization coverage among children in Sub-Saharan Africa. It explores the relationship between immunization and child mortality in this region by analyzing a panel dataset comprising 44 Sub-Saharan African countries from 2011 to 2019. The study employs the System Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) approach. The results reveal a statistically significant negative association between immunization coverage and under-five mortality, which suggests the potential of immunization to mitigate child mortality in the region. Furthermore, the
analysis identifies sanitation, economic development (measured by GDP per capita), food security, urbanization, dependency ratios, access to clean fuel, and technology as significant determinants of under-five mortality. These findings carry substantial implications for the future workforce and the health and well-being of under-five children. To improve immunization rates, the study emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts among governments, non governmental organizations, and donor agencies to promote public awareness and address barriers impeding immunization coverage in Sub-Saharan Africa.