The National Statistical Office (NSO) of Malawi successfully launched the 2024 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey (MDHS) Key Indicators Report (KIR) on January 23, 2024, at the Sunbird Capital Hotel in Lilongwe. This report, a vital tool for policymakers, offers an in-depth look at the country’s health and demographic trends, providing data critical for shaping national strategies.

The 2024 MDHS reflects a collaborative effort supported by the Government of Malawi, USAID, the World Bank, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNESCO, UNHCR, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. Technical guidance was provided by ICF through The DHS Program, funded by USAID.

Key Findings from the Report:

• Fertility Rates: The total fertility rate has dropped to 3.7 children per woman, a significant decline from 6.7 in 1992.
• Teenage Pregnancy: 32% of women aged 15–19 have experienced pregnancy, with rural areas reporting higher rates (34%) than urban areas (19%).
• Maternal Health: 96% of women accessed antenatal care from skilled providers, and 90% delivered in health facilities.
• Family Planning Usage: 68% of married women use contraceptives, primarily injectables (34%) and implants (19%).
• Malaria Control: 59% of households own at least one insecticide-treated net.
• Child Nutrition: 38 percent of children under age 5 are stunted, 2% are wasted, and 10% are underweight. 6 percent of children are overweight.
• 
  

The survey collected data from over 22,000 households nationwide, covering key areas such as family planning, maternal and child health, malaria prevention, HIV awareness, and nutrition. These findings will guide future health and development programs, helping Malawi progress toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Speaking at the event, officials emphasized the importance of reliable data in driving impactful policies and programs that improve the lives of Malawians.