National health statistics reveal mixed trends in Seychelles |10 April 2025

The National Bureau of Statistics, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, has released a comprehensive report detailing maternal and infant health indicators for Seychelles from 2014 to 2024.

The publication, which includes figures on infant mortality, maternal deaths, stillbirths, and births occurring outside health facilities, offers a critical look at national progress and setbacks in the area of reproductive and child health.

The release of these figures was in the lead-up to World Health Day 2025, observed on April 7 under the global theme ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’. The timing of the report underscores the urgent need for data-driven interventions to ensure safer pregnancies and better outcomes for mothers and newborns in the country.

The infant mortality rate — defined as the number of deaths of infants under one year of age per 1,000 live births — has fluctuated significantly over the past 10 years. Rates ranged from a high of 18.8 per 1,000 in 2017 to a low of 10.7 in 2020 and 2022, before climbing again to 13.4 in 2023 and slightly declining to 10.9 in 2024.

Although the current figure reflects improvement compared to earlier years, the inconsistency raises concerns about the stability and effectiveness of neonatal healthcare services. Sustained investment in early childhood and maternal care remains essential to ensure continued progress.

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