Child Morbidity and Mortality in Slum Environments along Nairobi River
Margaret Nyanchoka Keraka and Wellington Nguya Wamicha
Abstract:
The problem that guided this study was that child mortality and morbidity
disparities continue to be observed in the era of improved expansion of the
provision of health care services. some areas have low mortality and morbidity
while others such as the slums of Nairobi have high. Various factors may account
for this scenarios.
The aim of this study was therefore to examine the impact of slum environments along Nairobi River. The main objectives were: first, to assess the influence of environmental factors on child morbidity and mortality, and second, to analyse the influence of the perception and behaviour patterns of slum dwellers on child mortality and morbidity.
The data used in this study was collected using in-depth interviews and extensive literature review. The key findings of the study included the fact that poverty is a major factor in child morbidity and mortality. It is because of low-income levels that the families concerned were not able to improve the sanitation that was in turn going to improve the health status of the children. The study therefore recommended that the government should give small loans to slum dwellers, which they can use to start income-generating activities. This can help generate some money that may improve childcare practices.