Mogadishu played host to an important event this week to mark Universal Health Coverage Day (UHCD), spotlighting the critical need for accessible health services across Somalia.
“Achieving universal health coverage for all Somalis, including those in remote areas, is a significant challenge,” said Dr. Ahmed Adam Mohamed, Senior Adviser for Health System Strengthening at Somalia’s Ministry of Health and Human Services. “However, this goal requires collective efforts from the government, international partners, and citizens.”
Somalia’s current UHC service coverage index stands at just 27 out of 100—the lowest globally—according to the World Health Organization (WHO). “While the situation is dire, there are signs of improvement thanks to the commitment of various stakeholders,” stated Dr. Marina Madeo, a WHO Health Policy Advisor.
The UHCD gathering, held at the National Museum of Somalia, brought together researchers, civil society representatives, students, artists, and international officials. Dr. Najib Isse Dirie, Deputy Rector for Research and Consultancy at SIMAD University, highlighted Somalia’s alarming maternal mortality rate of 692 deaths per 100,000 childbirths, emphasizing the urgent need to close healthcare gaps.
“The Ministry of Health, with support from the WHO and various partners, is making significant efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and services,” Dr. Dirie added.
The event, jointly organized by the Ministry of Health, WHO, and the United Nations Transitional Mission in Somalia’s (UNTMIS) Human Rights and Protection Group (HRPG), aimed to raise awareness about universal health coverage.
Kirsten Young, Chief of UNTMIS/HRPG, underscored the importance of accessible healthcare. “This year’s UHCD theme focuses on ensuring governments provide universal health coverage. From a human rights perspective, this means healthcare must be accessible, available, acceptable, and of quality,” she noted.
Art and language were central to the event’s messaging. “Healthcare information shared in local dialects ensures inclusivity,” said Ms. Young. “Art is also a powerful medium to express healthcare issues.”
Somalia faces numerous obstacles, including conflict, climate change, and inadequate funding, which severely impact its healthcare delivery. Rural communities are particularly affected, with limited access to healthcare facilities and information.
To address these challenges, the Ministry of Health is collaborating with the National Museum, SIMAD University, WHO, and UNTMIS to make healthcare information more accessible and understandable, especially in local dialects.
“The right to health starts with information that is accessible, relatable, and trusted,” Young emphasized. Participants, like Safiya Jeylaani from Barawe in Southwest State, welcomed the initiative. “Translating healthcare materials into local dialects ensures that vital information reaches everyone, including those in remote areas,” she said.
Universal Health Coverage Day commemorates the United Nations’ 2012 endorsement of UHC. The UN promotes UHC as a cornerstone for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to eliminate poverty, protect the planet, and improve global well-being by 2030.
The WHO highlights that universal health coverage is essential for building resilient, peaceful, and productive communities. Yet, over half of the world’s population lacks access to essential health services. For Somalia, advancing UHC will require significant investments to protect its most vulnerable populations and ensure no one is left behind.
With initiatives like those celebrated on UHCD, Somalia takes a step closer to its vision of accessible, equitable, and quality healthcare for all.
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