Somalia: Hormuud Salaam Foundation Invests $1 Million Annually in Lifesaving Dialysis for Over 170 Patients

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Deep in the heart of Mogadishu, a remarkable story of hope and healing unfolds daily, underpinned by the compassionate ethos of the Hormuud Salaam Foundation (HSF)—a generous endeavor spearheaded by Hormuud Telecom and Salaam Somali Bank. This foundation is performing nothing short of a miracle, spending an impressive $1 million annually to provide free dialysis to more than 170 Somali patients battling kidney failure. This incredible feat was brought to light by the foundation’s chairman, Abdullahi Nur Osman, this past Tuesday.

The humble beginnings of this initiative, which initially served only a fraction of the current beneficiaries, are a testament to its exponential growth and success. “We started with merely 10 to 20 patients,” Osman reflected, his voice carrying both pride and urgency. “The escalating number of kidney failure sufferers in Somalia is deeply alarming.” He elaborated on this pressing issue, revealing that HSF shoulders the financial burden of $500 to $600 monthly for each patient’s treatment.

This life-preserving treatment is administered at the exemplary Darussalam Hospital, tucked away in the Darussalam district of Mogadishu. Patients attend bi-weekly sessions, totaling up to eight dialysis treatments each month. Osman noted that certain individuals, particularly those in more severe conditions, require additional inpatient care. This program is doing more than just addressing symptoms—it’s genuinely transforming lives.

The profound gratitude of the patients speaks to the heart of this initiative. Take Mohammed Hassan from Marka, for instance, who did not hold back his emotions when he stated, “The Hormuud Salaam Foundation saved my life.” In a similar heartfelt testimony, Abdirisak Moalim from Afgooye referred to the care as a lifeline. “This care has rescued me from a dire health situation,” he confided, painting a vivid picture of how critical this program is to his survival.

Abdirisak Farah from Qalimow echoed these sentiments, saying, “Without their help, my life would have been at risk.” These voices of appreciation underscore the life-altering impact of the foundation’s commitment. Remarkably, the initiative has celebrated significant victories, such as the recovery of six patients who have since stepped away from the dialysis routine, a significant milestone that breathes hope into the program’s future.

Osman remains optimistic and unwavering in his dedication, pledging, “We are hopeful to see more patients recover.” His assurance is a call to continued action in combating the disturbing health crisis in Somalia—a nation where high-level medical services are still a luxury, hard to come by for many.

Formulating a collective front, the Hormuud Salaam Foundation is not just offering treatment; they are sewing the seeds of hope, rehabilitation, and recovery in the hearts of so many. Their efforts have deservedly earned widespread acclaim, with numerous patients attributing their survival to the foundation’s indispensable care. This successful initiative stands as a beacon of relief amidst a growing public health emergency in Somalia.

Through stories like these, we are reminded of the importance of community and the indomitable human spirit. While Osman and his dedicated team at the foundation labor tirelessly, we are prompted to question: How can we become part of such transformative change?

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring