Mogadishu, Somalia – The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Health, in collaboration with the Federal Government of Somalia, state ministries of health, and development partners, has reviewed the progress of the Better Lives Programme, a UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)-supported initiative designed to transform maternal and child health outcomes across the country.
The programme, launched under the banner “Better Lives,” focuses on reducing maternal and child mortality, strengthening Somalia’s fragile health systems, and ensuring that vulnerable populations have expanded access to essential services.
During the review, stakeholders highlighted the programme’s achievements in increasing access to skilled birth attendants, expanding immunization coverage, and improving referral networks for emergency obstetric and neonatal care. Attention was also given to systemic challenges, including underfunded health facilities, shortages of trained personnel, and the need for resilient supply chains to deliver life-saving medicines.
“Somalia continues to face high maternal and child mortality rates, but with targeted interventions like Better Lives, we are seeing progress in strengthening primary health care and saving lives,” UNICEF representatives noted at the meeting.
The initiative also emphasizes capacity building at both federal and state levels, promoting collaboration among ministries, local health workers, and international partners. By addressing governance gaps and promoting accountability in service delivery, Better Lives aims to leave a sustainable impact beyond the programme’s lifespan.
Officials reaffirmed their commitment to scaling up successful approaches, particularly in underserved rural and conflict-affected regions, where mothers and children remain at greatest risk.
The review concluded with a joint call for continued donor support and government investment to ensure that Somalia’s health sector becomes more resilient, equitable, and responsive to the needs of its people.
