Somalia's Health System Needs a Fresh Approach

Somalia faces a mix of problems that make health care hard to deliver. Long running conflict and unstable politics break down government services. Climate shocks like droughts and floods push people from their homes. Poverty and a weak health system add more pressure.

The country deals with both infectious diseases and chronic illnesses at the same time. Mothers and children die at high rates. Nutrition crises and lack of clean water keep happening. These issues strain the few clinics that exist.

There are not enough trained health workers. Labs and disease tracking are limited. Many people cannot reach a clinic because services are uneven. Most funding comes from outside donors and can stop suddenly.

Experts say the system needs a new plan. Stronger public leadership and cooperation between federal and state levels are required. Money must be reliable and not just emergency aid. Primary health care should connect communities, private clinics, labs, hospitals and emergency teams. Surveillance must work across regions. Water, sanitation and referral networks need to withstand climate impacts.