Tensions Rise as Regional Health Ministries Clash with Federal Government Over Cooperation

Mogadishu (AX) — An alarming rift has emerged between the federal government of Somalia and the regional health ministries, alongside the Banadir region. This discord pertains to the cessation of collaborative efforts essential for the provision of health services. In a united statement released on Sunday, these regional bodies accused the Federal Ministry of Health of unceremoniously halting cooperation.

They highlighted a concerning trend: directives from the federal government obligating organizations to discontinue their direct engagement with both the regional governments and Banadir. The ramifications of this decision are dire, particularly for pivotal initiatives like the Damal Project, a venture potentially on the verge of losing $25 million in funding, which could revert to the World Bank.

Moreover, the impending shuttering of the COVID-19 Project by October 2025 looms, alongside notable setbacks in staffing for the CCU Project, which faces an expiration by April 2025. The regional health ministries voiced alarm over the protracted suspension of essential initiatives such as the Global Fund Project, enduring a nine-month hiatus. They also noted the abrupt cessation of technical committee meetings and the freezing of the CHASP Project steering committee.

“The delivery of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals that once reached federal member states and the Banadir region directly has been interrupted by federal mandate,” the statement lamented. “Now, all materials must funnel through the Federal Ministry of Health, choking off vital resources.”

In addition to these pressing concerns, the regional health officials raised red flags about delays affecting the GAVI Project, aimed at immunizing Somali women and children. They criticized the federal authorities for implementing a new health service delivery framework without soliciting input from regional officials.

As of now, the Federal Ministry of Health has yet to issue a response to these serious allegations. The unfolding situation underscores the escalating struggle for power and control between Somalia’s federal and regional leaders, a conflict that has gained momentum in recent times.