Mortality And Fertility In Sub-Sahara Africa: Investigating The Precautionary Measures In Nigeria, 1960s – C.1990s

Abstract

In the early 1960s, many countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) became independent nations. At the time, the healthcare system was fragile and the region recorded an increase in child mortality rates (CMRs).  Techniques were therefore designed in an attempt to cope with the situation- the replacement and hoarding techniques, also referred to as “precautionary measures”. With replacement method, couples tend to replace an actual child death by having another one. On the other hand, families who have not experienced child loss have excess births in order to safeguard against future possibility (hoarding). Apart from low chances of child survival particularly in the 60s and 70s, the cultural value placed on children and the practice of large family size also justified this approach.  These strategies have been seen to enhance fertility by influencing reproductive decisions. Causation however runs in other direction as reduction in childbirth leads to falls in fatality. The 1990s witnessed a drop in CMRs owing to health care plans and population policies.  This decline did not transcend to lower fertility due to an increase in child morbidity, a situation which further stimulated fertility.  With a focus on Nigeria, the paper aims at exploring these measures as a form of community innovation and response to child mortality. In addition, the cultural factors underlying its adoption and its nexus with fertility are investigated. The research employs a qualitative method of analysis, using oral sources as primary material and other sources for secondary collections.