Maternal mortality and economic development in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Globally, the highest number of maternal deaths is in Sub-Saharan African region with ratio of 546 maternal deaths per 100, 000 live births which is approximately 201,000 maternal deaths annually. This amounts to two-thirds of all maternal deaths per year worldwide.  This fact calls for investigation to ascertain its effect(s) on economic development of the sub region. It is however hypothesized that maternal death generally is significant and has negative influence on economic growth (Gross Domestic product) both in under-developed, developing and developed nations. The objective of this study is to estimate the effect of maternal mortality on economic development in Sub-Sahara African region. Cross-sectional data analysis of selected member countries in the region under focus was employed using double-log econometric model. The source of data is from United Nations Development Programme and World Bank. The explanatory variables in the model were statistically significant at 5% level while other coefficients like maternal mortality, exports and imports conform to the apriori expectations and impacted negatively on the overall GDP. A necessary but not sufficient condition is investing on viable programmes and projects that reduce maternal deaths as well as spur significant economic returns and sustainability in sub-Saharan African economies are however recommended.