Comparative Analysis of Determinants of Use of Health Facility for Childbirth in Selected Southern African Countries

Enock Ngome, University of Botswana
Moses Festo Towongo, University of Botswana

The need to minimize maternal deaths following the continued existence of non-institutional births in Southern African compelled a comparative analysis of determinants of use of health facility for childbirth in Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Study uses latest DHS data from Lesotho (N=2596), Malawi (N=13448), Namibia (N=3974) & Zimbabwe (N=4833). Using binary logistic regression, parity, wealth index and adequate use of prenatal care were associated with use of health facility for childbirth among all 4 countries. However, maternal age, household family size and whether pregnancy was wanted were found to be significant only in Lesotho. Marital status played a significant role in Lesotho and Zimbabwe. Level of education and place of residence were not significant in Malawi and Zimbabwe respectively. The link between socioeconomic and demographic factors and use of health facility does vary between the 4 countries except for parity, wealth index and adequacy of ANC use.