The Ethiopian Statistical Service (ESS) announced this week the findings of a comprehensive demographic and health survey, highlighting fundamental shifts in the country’s health, fertility, education, and employment sectors.
The survey, which began in August 2024 and spanned nine months, provides data illustrating Ethiopia's gradual transition toward urbanization and increased adoption of modern technology.
The findings reveal a significant demographic shift over the past quarter-century. The national total fertility rate, which averaged six children per woman 25 years ago, has now dropped to below four.
However, this national average masks a stark dichotomy between urban and rural areas. In Addis Ababa, the fertility rate has fallen to the replacement level of two, while in rural regions, the average remains at five.
Significant improvements were noted in child survival rates; under-five mortality has plummeted from 166 per 1,000 live births to 51. While the report credits these gains to intensified vaccination campaigns and improved healthcare services, it warns that neonatal mortality remains stubbornly high.
According to the data, 68 percent of newborns receive no postnatal health check within their first week of life.Regarding socio-economic conditions, the survey reports that 42 percent of the Ethiopian population is under the age of 14, and access to basic services remains limited.
While 57 percent of the population has access to clean drinking water, only 40 percent enjoy electricity in their homes. Furthermore, the report notes that more than a quarter of the population still practices open defecation.
In the employment sector, the data shows 41 percent of women and 87 percent of men are currently employed. While the majority of the workforce remains engaged in agriculture, a significant portion 56 percent of women and 46 percent of men perform unpaid labor.
Finally, the survey addresses road safety, noting that between 3,000 and 3,600 people lose their lives in traffic accidents annually.
The study was conducted across 797 enumeration areas in 19,460 kebeles nationwide, with technical and financial support from USAID, the Global Fund, UK Aid, UNICEF, UNFPA, UN Women, and the Gates Foundation.
