Republic of Zambia The Role of the Health Sector in Improving Birth and Death Registration 3 rd Session of the Conference of African Ministers Responsible for Civil Registration Expert Session Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast. Martin Nyahoda- CRVS Country Expert

Outline Introduction Birth and Death Occurrence in Zambia Birth Registration Health Facility Registration Results Key Lesson

Introduction The role of the health sector in improving birth and death registration is well known because a good percentage of these vital events occur in health facilities in Africa. Even in cases where births occur outside health facilities children are taken to health facilities for immunizations. This creates a great opportunity for immediate registration at point of occurrence.

Birth Occurrence in Zambia About 48% of births occur in health facilities About 52% of births occur at home About 99% of children under five have immunization cards. This means that close to 100% of children are in touch with health facilities from birth or during immunizations.

Death Occurrence in Zambia

Birth Registration Zambia is among the countries in the SADC region with low levels of birth registration. However, the country is making positive steps in improving birth and death registration as outlined in the National Strategic Action plan for CRVS improvement (Product of the Comprehensive assessment)

Birth Registration Health facility registration was launched in 2013 with support from UNICEF country office By September December 2014, registration of births was being conducted in close to 200 health facilities across the country.

2014 Results: Health Facility Birth Registration in 3 Provinces

Key Lesson The health sector has a big role in improving registration coverage. Health facility based registration of births and deaths means that these events can be captured immediately at point of occurrence which eliminates chances of non registration and on the other hand improves accuracy of reported information.

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