In a landmark declaration, Somalia’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Somalia, has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) as a core component of humanitarian action.
This pledge marks a critical step toward building a more resilient and inclusive response system, ensuring that mental health care is central to the nation’s recovery efforts.
With Somalia facing complex humanitarian crises—including conflict, displacement, climate shocks, and health emergencies—mental health needs have surged, particularly among vulnerable populations such as internally displaced persons (IDPs), women, children, and survivors of violence. Recognizing this urgent need, the Ministry and WHO Somalia are working to strengthen mental health services, expand access to psychosocial support, and combat stigma around mental health conditions.
Dr. Mamunur Malik, WHO Representative to Somalia, emphasized, “In crises, mental health saves lives just as much as physical health. WHO stands with Somalia to ensure no one is left behind in accessing critical psychosocial support.”
This commitment aligns with global frameworks such as the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings and supports Somalia’s progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
As Somalia continues its path to stability, prioritizing mental health signals a transformative shift toward holistic, people-centered humanitarian action—one that heals minds as well as bodies.