Child mortality remains a problem in Namibia

A large number of children are still dying early in Namibia, a new report has revealed.

According to a report by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA), child mortality is a particular problem among the poorest sections of society, the New Era reports.

This is partly because children born into poverty are more likely to be underweight at the time of birth, while many may also experience stunted growth.

The NSA also pointed out that poorer children tend to see poor educational outcomes, as well as have little access to clean water and other basic utilities.

Dr John Steytler, statistician general in Namibia, has therefore called on authorities in the country to step up their efforts to tackle child poverty across the country.

"Poverty has a deep and long-lasting impact on the lives and development of children, especially their health and education," he commented.

Dr Steytler added that if the problem is not dealt with as soon as possible, it will be "passed on from generation to generation".