UNICEF has released a statement calling for thorough investigations into the abduction and subsequent murder of the health workers in Somalia.
Seven health workers and a civilian were abducted last week before being killed and their bodies dumped by the roadside in southern Somalia.
In the statement, UNICEF expressed its “shock and sadness” at the senseless killing of workers whose expertise are in great demand at a time when the nation is grappling with COVID-19.
The seven workers were from a health facility that Zamzam Foundation, an implementing partner of UNICEF, runs in Gololey village.
UNICEF sent its message of condolence to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased health workers.
It also emphasized that attacks against health workers violate international law; hence, must never be tolerated.
UNICEF has been present in Somalia since 1972. It has employed more than 300 workers at its offices in Hargeisa, Garowe, Dollow, and Baidoa.