Malawi sees slight rise in Christmas births, renewing focus on family planning

The country has recorded 1,487 births on Christmas Day this year—764 girls and 723 boys—a slight increase from the 1,462 births recorded on the same day last year.

This uptick has reignited discussions surrounding Malawi’s population growth and the critical need for improved family planning services.

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The Ministry of Health has expressed concern about the implications of this rising birth rate.

Spokesperson Adrian Chikumbe emphasized the strain this growth places on the nation’s resources.

“The rising birth rates demonstrate the need for better family planning and more focus on long-term family planning methods. Malawi cannot afford to continue growing at this rate, as it puts significant pressure on health, education, and economic resources,” Chikumbe stated.

Donald Makwakwa, Executive Director of the Family Planning Association of Malawi (FPAM), acknowledged the complex factors influencing family size, including cultural practices, access to healthcare, and individual choices.

He stressed the importance of continued advocacy for family planning, urging women to make informed decisions that contribute to responsible population management for the well-being of both families and the country.

Geographically, Lilongwe district recorded the highest number of births, with 229 this year compared to 191 last year.

This higher figure is likely attributable to the capital city’s larger population and greater access to healthcare facilities.

In contrast, Likoma, a smaller and less densely populated island district, saw only one birth this year, compared to zero last year.