The causes of death in children under five years were studied using a structured verbal autopsy questionnaire. Possible determinants of death were also investigated. About 44% of deaths were among neonates [below 28 days of age] ; the major causes of death in neonates were prematurity [33%] and birth-related factors [30%]. In infants [1-11 months of age], the leading cause of death was congenital malformations [24%]. Accidents were responsible for one-third of deaths in children aged 1-4 years. Factors that might have contributed to death were investigated. The public health importance of causes of death was evaluated and its implications were discussed