There are several reasons for the higher rate of population fertility, especially in rural areas of Ethiopia. These include:
1. Low levels of education: In rural areas, access to quality education is limited. Many women have limited knowledge about family planning methods and reproductive health. Lack of education leads to a lack of understanding about the benefits of spacing and limiting pregnancies.
2. Limited access to healthcare services: Rural areas often suffer from a lack of healthcare facilities and resources. This makes it difficult for women to access contraceptives and reproductive health services. Lack of access to healthcare also affects the overall health status of women, making them more prone to frequent and unintended pregnancies.
3. High infant and child mortality rates: Due to limited access to healthcare and poor living conditions, infant and child mortality rates are high in rural areas. As a result, families tend to have more children, hoping that some will survive and support them in old age.
4. Sociocultural norms and gender roles: Ethiopia is a patriarchal society where women's main role is often seen as childbearing and taking care of the family. There is societal pressure on women to have many children, as it is considered a sign of fertility and societal status. This leads to higher fertility rates, particularly in rural areas where traditions are stronger.
5. Lack of awareness and acceptance of family planning methods: Despite various family planning programs by the government, there is still a lack of awareness and acceptance of contraception methods in rural areas. Religious beliefs, misconceptions, and cultural resistance contribute to the low uptake of family planning methods.
6. Economic factors: Many rural communities in Ethiopia rely on agriculture as their main source of income. Large families are often seen as an economic advantage, as they can contribute to farmwork and provide support in difficult times. This economic perspective encourages couples to have more children.
Overall, a combination of limited education, healthcare access, sociocultural norms, and economic factors contribute to the higher fertility rates, especially in rural areas of Ethiopia. Addressing these factors through improved education, healthcare services, family planning awareness, and economic opportunities can help in lowering the fertility rate in these areas.
What are the reasons for the considerable Higher rate of population fertility especially in ruralas of Ethiopia ?
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