The health ministry of Djibouti has been working to enhance its response to the growing number of Yemeni refugees fleeing to the country. Over three weeks, the ministry has been mobilizing efforts to coordinate a health response, ensuring the health and well-being of the refugee population. This includes providing medical care, medicine, and medical supplies.
On October 8, 2026, the Minister of Health, Mona Osman Aden, chaired a meeting to assess the health response and enhance interventions for the refugees. The meeting brought together representatives from UN agencies, implementing partners, the military, and the National Social Security Fund (CNSS). The goal was to unify efforts and strengthen coordination among parties involved in the humanitarian response.
The meeting reviewed priority health needs, including medical care, medicine, and medical supplies. The minister acknowledged the efforts of partners and reaffirmed Djibouti's commitment to providing assistance to those fleeing conflict and seeking refuge. She noted that the country, under the guidance of President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, has a long-standing tradition of solidarity and hospitality.
The health ministry has been mobilizing resources since the first refugees arrived, providing medicine and medical supplies to the Abkh region. This aims to support local health facilities and medical teams responding to emerging health needs. On October 8, 2026, the ministry delivered a new shipment of medicine, medical supplies, and equipment to meet identified needs.
Partners present at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the health ministry's efforts, offering to contribute medicine, medical supplies, and support for the rehabilitation and improvement of the refugee reception center. This joint effort reflects the ministry's focus on a rapid, coordinated, and appropriate health response.
The health ministry's efforts aim to strengthen the health system's capacity in the Abkh region, ensuring a response that matches the evolving needs of the refugee population. The situation remains a priority for the government, with ongoing efforts to provide adequate health services and humanitarian assistance.
The response efforts also highlight Djibouti's commitment to upholding its tradition of solidarity and hospitality, providing critical assistance to those in need. The situation will continue to be monitored, with ongoing assessments to identify emerging needs and inform the response.
Key points
- The health ministry of Djibouti is working to enhance its response to the growing number of Yemeni refugees.
- A meeting was held to assess the health response and enhance interventions for the refugees.
- The response efforts aim to strengthen the health system's capacity in the Abkh region.
