Nearly 600 health facilities across Somalia were at risk of closure due to a decline in health funding. Health and Social Care Minister Dr. Ali Haji Adan announced that the facilities, which heavily rely on external funding, will remain open through December thanks to secured resources. This development comes as a relief to communities that depend on these health services.
The Somali health sector has long relied on donor support, particularly because much of the country's domestic revenue is allocated to security. According to Dr. Ali Haji, the drop in funding has severely impacted the health sector. The ministry is now working to secure sustainable financing for the at-risk facilities to ensure continuity of health services.
The funding decline coincides with Somalia's widespread health needs, particularly in maternal and child health services and access to care in areas far from major cities. Despite financial challenges, the country has made progress in expanding health services. Vaccination coverage has risen from about 40% to more than 70%, and access to basic health services has increased from 42% to over 65%.
Maternal mortality has also decreased from 692 to 563 deaths per 100,000 births under Dr. Ali Haji's tenure. However, the figure remains far higher than the government's target. The minister plans to recruit hundreds of midwives across the country to expand maternal and child health services to districts and villages lacking adequate care.
Dr. Ali Haji made these remarks during a meeting with Somalia's Federal Parliament's Social Services Committee. The committee questioned the ministry's performance, funding challenges, and plans to improve health services. The minister's update highlights the government's efforts to address the country's health needs despite financial constraints.
The Somali government faces significant challenges in funding its health sector. The reliance on donor support and limited domestic revenue allocation to health services exacerbate the issue. The ministry's efforts to secure sustainable financing and expand health services are crucial in addressing the country's health needs.
The recruitment of midwives and expansion of health services to underserved areas are part of the ministry's plans to improve health outcomes. The government's progress in increasing vaccination coverage and access to basic health services demonstrates its commitment to enhancing the country's health sector.
Key points
- Somalia's health ministry secures emergency funding to keep 600 health facilities operational through December.
- The country's health sector relies heavily on donor support due to limited domestic revenue allocation.
- Maternal mortality rates remain high, prompting plans to recruit midwives and expand health services.
