The latest global health data has revealed the countries with the highest infant mortality rates, shedding light on critical gaps in healthcare access, sanitation, nutrition, and maternal support.
- Infant mortality rates reveal critical gaps in healthcare access, sanitation, and nutrition
- Afghanistan has the highest infant mortality rate of 103.1 per 1,000 live births
- Most countries with high infant mortality rates are in Sub-Saharan Africa, facing poverty and limited healthcare access
These figures represent the number of deaths of infants under one year of age per 1,000 live births and are an important indicator of a country’s overall public health.
Afghanistan leads the rankings
Afghanistan tops the global list with an alarming infant mortality rate of 103.1 per 1,000 live births. The country continues to struggle with decades of conflict, economic instability, and a fractured healthcare system, all of which severely impact child survival.
Sub-Saharan Africa dominates the list
Most of the countries with the highest infant mortality rates are located in Sub-Saharan Africa, where poverty, limited access to healthcare, malnutrition, and conflict continue to endanger the lives of infants and mothers alike.
Here is the list of the top 10 countries with the highest infant mortality rates as of 2024:
| Rank | Country | Infant Mortality Rate (per 1,000 live births) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Afghanistan | 103.1 |
| 2 | Somalia | 85.1 |
| 3 | Central African Republic | 81.7 |
| 4 | Equatorial Guinea | 77.9 |
| 5 | Sierra Leone | 72.3 |
| 6 | Niger | 65.5 |
| 7 | Chad | 64.0 |
| 8 | South Sudan | 61.6 |
| 9 | Mozambique | 59.8 |
| 10 | Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) | 59.1 |
Global health inequities highlighted
These figures underline significant global health disparities. Despite advances in medical technology and public health strategies, many nations are still unable to provide the basic care required to ensure infant survival.
Experts continue to call for increased investment in maternal and child health services, especially in regions plagued by conflict and poverty. Stronger health infrastructure, improved nutrition programmes, and better access to clean water and vaccinations are essential steps toward reducing these rates.
