Mogadishu, Somalia – Led by officials from the health ministry, Somalia joined the global observance of World Prematurity Day today, bringing together health leaders, humanitarian agencies, and families in Mogadishu for a deeply meaningful commemoration. The event, led by the health minister Dr. Ali Hajiadam Abubakar, placed a spotlight on the country’s urgent struggle to safeguard babies born before their time.
Prematurity remains the foremost cause of newborn and under-five deaths in Somalia. In maternity wards across the country, health workers often battle overwhelming odds as they care for fragile infants who depend on equipment that is limited and expertise that is stretched thin. For many families, the fight for survival begins within minutes of birth.
Among those joining the gathering was Nisar Syed, the Deputy Representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Somalia, whose presence underscored the agency’s support for strengthening maternal and neonatal care. UNICEF’s long-standing work with the government and partner organizations continues to focus on giving premature babies a fair chance, from improving obstetric services to reinforcing neonatal units with essential supplies and staff training.
The ceremony carried a mix of urgency and hope. Parents who once endured sleepless nights beside incubators stood quietly with health workers who had fought for their children’s survival. Their shared stories served as a reminder that behind each statistic is a family reshaped by fear, resilience, and unwavering love.
Health professionals emphasized the realities they confront daily: overstretched facilities, shortages of life-saving equipment, and families travelling long distances seeking help. Despite such challenges, the event reflected a growing determination within the health sector to reduce preventable deaths through stronger referral systems, improved emergency obstetric care, and community awareness.
As Somalia joined the world in marking this day, the message resonated across the audience — every premature baby is a life worth fighting for. The country’s health leadership, supported by partners like UNICEF, signaled a renewed resolve to protect its smallest and most vulnerable citizens, ensuring that more newborns survive and thrive.