Somalia’s Health Minister, Dr. Ali Haji Adam, and United Kingdom’s Minister for International Development, Baroness Chapman, met a few days ago to discuss strengthening healthcare support in Somalia.
Their dialogue centered on financial aid and collaboration for the National Health Plan 2025-2029, aiming to ensure accessible, quality healthcare for all Somalis.
This meeting underscores the ongoing partnership between Somalia and the United Kingdom in the health sector.
Notably, in April 2024, the “Better Lives for Somali Women and Children” programme was launched. This £38 million initiative, funded by UK Aid and implemented by UNICEF alongside partners like Mercy USA, Trocaire, Save the Children, and Action Against Hunger, targets vulnerable mothers and children in regions such as Galmudug, Jubaland, and the Banadir Regional Administration.
The programme seeks to deliver critical health and nutrition services, including immunizations, maternal and newborn care, and treatment for malnutrition and common childhood illnesses, with the goal of reaching approximately 1.5 million beneficiaries.
Furthermore, in November 2023, the UK-Somalia Strategic Partnership was established, emphasizing health as a top priority.
This partnership focuses on supporting Somalia’s transition to Universal Health Coverage and implementing the national health and nutrition policy framework.
The UK has committed up to £37 million over three years to improve access to basic health facilities for 2.8 million people, including maternal and newborn care and routine immunizations.
These collaborative efforts highlight the shared commitment of Somalia and the United Kingdom to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality for Somali citizens.