Somalia

Unlocking the potential of traditional birth attendants in Somaliland: a qualitative study on healthcare system integration

This study explored the roles of traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in Somaliland. Historically, TBAs handled pregnancy, childbirth, and harmful practices like female genital mutilation. Today, their role has shifted. They act as trusted links between communities and formal healthcare, helping women access professional maternal and reproductive services. Using TBAs in this way … [Read more...] about Unlocking the potential of traditional birth attendants in Somaliland: a qualitative study on healthcare system integration

Somalia’s health system faces severe challenges, with very low service coverage and a major shortage of health workers. A roundtable in Mogadishu brought together government, private sector, and civil society leaders to set priorities for the National Transformation Plan (2025–2029). Participants highlighted four key needs: expanding primary care through community health … [Read more...] about Transforming Health in Post-Conflict Somalia: Priorities from a Multi-Stakeholder Roundtable on the 2025-2029 National Plan

Somalia’s health system faces major challenges due to weak governance and conflict. To improve services, two new efforts were introduced: the Marwo Caafimaad community health worker program and a digital reporting system using DHIS2. This study reviewed health data from 2018–2024 and gathered insights from interviews and focus groups. The results showed clear progress; … [Read more...] about Health Systems Governance in Somalia: An Examination of Validity, Digital Accountability, and Community Health Workforce through Mixed Methods Research

In 2020, a mental health training program called mhGAP was introduced in Somalia to help frontline health workers better support their communities. The eight-day training improved the workers’ knowledge and skills in dealing with mental health, neurological, and substance use issues. Test scores showed clear improvement after the training, and participants felt more prepared to … [Read more...] about Training of front-line health workers in Somalia on mental health: A mixed-methods effectiveness study on the implementation of mental health gap action programme (mhGAP)

This study evaluated the impact of community health workers (CHWs) on maternal and newborn health in six internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in Chad, Sudan, and Somalia. Over one year, CHWs supported pregnant women with antenatal education, referrals, immunizations, and home-based care. Results showed major improvements: antenatal care attendance rose from 41% to 96%, … [Read more...] about Community Health Worker Impact on Maternal and Child Health in Displaced Populations: A Prospective Cohort Study