Rwanda Cuts Under-Five Mortality by Nearly 82% in 25 Years

Kigali, July 2, 2026 - Rwanda has achieved a major milestone in child survival, reducing the under-five mortality rate by nearly 82% over the past 25 years, reflecting sustained improvements in maternal and child healthcare across the country. In 2000, 196 out of every 1,000 children born alive died before reaching their fifth birthday. By 2005, the figure had dropped to 152, before falling sharply to 76 in 2010. The downward trend continued in subsequent years, reaching 50 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2014-2015, 45 in 2019-2020, and 36 per 1,000 live births by 2025. Overall, the country has reduced under-five mortality by 160 deaths per 1,000 live births since 2000, representing an 81.6% decline. The most dramatic improvement occurred between 2005 and 2010, when the mortality rate was cut in half, dropping from 152 to 76 deaths per 1,000 live births. Despite the significant gains, the figures indicate that challenges remain, with 36 children out of every 1,000 live births still dying before the age of five, underscoring the need for continued investment in maternal and child health services. The progress has been driven by a range of health sector reforms, including the expansion of skilled birth attendance, increased numbers of trained midwives, and improved access to quality healthcare services. One of the most notable achievements has been the rise in hospital deliveries. The proportion of women giving birth in health facilities increased from just 25% in 1992 to 98% in 2025, marking a dramatic shift toward safer childbirth. Hospital deliveries rose steadily over the years, climbing from 27% in 2000 to 39% in 2005, 69% in 2010, 91% in 2014-2015, 94% in 2019-2020, and 98% in 2025. As a result, only 2% of births now take place outside health facilities, a development that has contributed significantly to reducing both maternal and newborn deaths. The country's sustained progress has positioned Rwanda among the leading performers in East Africa in improving child survival, with expanded access to maternal healthcare playing a central role in saving the lives of mothers and children alike.