Infant Mortality in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Public Health and Theological Perspectives

Infant mortality remains a significant public health challenge globally, particularly in lower and middle-income regions such as Africa. Despite several global initiatives aimed at reducing infant mortality, it continues to disproportionately affect these regions, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) being one of the countries with the highest rates. According to the United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation1, DRC ranks among the top ten countries worldwide in terms of infant mortality rates, with the eastern region, particularly South Kivu, contributing significantly to this crisis. This study aims to explore the various factors contributing to infant mortality in DRC and propose targeted interventions from both public health and biblical perspectives. To achieve this, a comprehensive literature review was conducted, drawing on sources from Google Scholar, EBSCO, PubMed, and the World Health Organization (WHO). This review examines key factors influencing infant mortality in DRC, including armed conflict, malnutrition, infectious diseases, poor maternal health, unsafe water, poverty, and lack of education. The high rates of infant mortality in DRC can be attributed to a range of factors, including ongoing armed conflict, malnutrition, infectious diseases, poor maternal health, unsafe water sources, and widespread poverty. These challenges are compounded by limited access to healthcare and education. Addressing infant mortality in DRC requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on strengthening healthcare systems, improving maternal education, expanding immunization programs, and promoting conflict resolution. Additionally, the need to integrate biblical imperatives of care and compassion into public health strategies is critical to achieving long-term solutions. Efforts to reduce infant mortality must involve not only health interventions but also a broader societal commitment to justice and equity.