Transforming Health Care Access in Jubbaland, Somalia

Imagine a network of mobile health teams operating under the shade of trees, providing vital care to communities in the heart of Jubbaland state, Somalia. This is not a scene from a distant past, but a vivid snapshot of the present reality brought forth by dedicated medical personnel. The recent inauguration of four fully staffed health centres in remote areas like Jana-Abdalle, Bahdadhe, Raskamboni, and Dollow is redefining access to essential health services for countless individuals.

Previously, many residents had to navigate significant barriers to receive medical attention. Now, these centres offer a lifeline by providing free outpatient services, vaccinations, maternal care, and much-needed general treatments. Community members also reap the benefits of mobile clinics extending their reach to even the most isolated regions.

Consider the story of Aisha Farah Muse, a remarkable 60-year-old woman who embodies resilience. For years, Aisha tended to her livestock, her pride and livelihood, until a leg injury rendered her unable to work. It was during a routine visit to a mobile clinic in Badhadhe that she learned the truth about her condition. “It turns out it wasn’t a broken bone but a detached muscle. My knee moved out of place, shifting towards the ankle. The doctors fixed my leg, put the knee back in place, and applied a cast and bandage,” she recounted, a spark of relief in her voice.

“Had it not been for this service, I wouldn’t have been able to afford the trip to Kismayo for further treatment,” Aisha continued, her eyes reflecting the weight of her circumstances. With ten children to feed and a past filled with loss—three years ago, a devastating drought wiped out her herd of 300 cows and 200 goats—Aisha’s story resonates deeply with many. “We have no money, we don’t have any income to tell you about now. If we don’t find anything, we just sleep hungry at night,” she stated, a poignant reminder of the harsh realities faced by pastoralists in the region.

Maryan Abdi Budul, a 45-year-old mother of five, also found solace in these health centres. Upon visiting the clinic that opened in Jana Abdalle in April, she accessed medical care not only for herself but also for her children. Maryan was diagnosed with malaria and a bladder infection, conditions that exacerbated her struggles. “I was treated with a series of 10 injections and followed the prescribed medication,” she shared, highlighting the empowerment that comes from accessible healthcare. “After a month of medication, I felt much better,” she added with a sigh of relief.

But the ripple effect goes far beyond just physical health; it’s about the lives that are being rebuilt. Maryan’s five-hectare farm remains barren since the flooding in 2023, leading to crippling food insecurity. She also owes $400 to local traders who have extended her credit, trusting her out of familial bonds rather than monetary income. “Without these health services, I can’t even begin to think about cultivating my land again,” she lamented. The burden of accessing healthcare can feel insurmountable—just traveling 60 kilometers to Kismayo for medical services would have cost her at least $100. “We faced great difficulties getting treatment,” she recounted, illuminated by the thought of finally having a nearby health center. “We are very relieved to have this centre.”

The Jubbaland health ministry conducted thorough needs assessments early last year, revealing that districts like Jana Abdalle desperately needed resources and better infrastructure. As a result, the newly established five-room centre in Jana Abdalle has brought hope, employing nine dedicated staff members, including doctors and nurses who operate around the clock.

This initiative, a collaboration between the Jubbaland Ministry of Health, Vision Corps Initiative (VCI), and the Core Group Partners Project, has been generously funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. VCI officer Mohamed Ahmed Nur plays an instrumental role, ensuring that health services are consistently available. “The health centres operate 24 hours a day, and we provide maternal health services, outpatient care, and all vaccinations on the ministry’s schedule,” he explained. His commitment echoes the spirit of altruism that has become a cornerstone of this transformative project.

In a world where access to basic healthcare services can seem like an unattainable dream for many, these strides toward equity serve as a beacon of hope. As we approach a future shaped by compassion and community effort, can we imagine a world where every person has access to the health services they need? It is stories like Aisha’s and Maryan’s that remind us of the power of healthcare and the importance of human connection.

Perhaps, as we witness the unfolding of these initiatives, we can all contribute to a more compassionate society, one where health and wellness are not privileges for just a few, but fundamental rights for all.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring