As Somalia continues to rebuild after years of war, political unrest, and humanitarian crises, the country faces many needs.
One area where these needs are particularly acute is the healthcare sector, which currently lacks an adequate number of healthcare professionals in comparison to global standards for doctor-patient ratios.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are only eight skilled healthcare professionals for every 10,000 people in Somalia, far below the recommended 44.5 professionals per 10,000 people to meet global health targets.
Additionally, the maternal and child mortality rates in Somalia are concerning, with one in 25 women dying due to pregnancy-related causes and one in ten Somali children dying before the age of five.
While some healthcare workers may have the opportunity for lucrative careers in urban clinics or hospitals, for Mohamed Hassan Mohamud, also known as ‘Arab’, his focus remains on providing healthcare to the women and girls at the Jowle Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Garowe, Puntland.
Beginnings
Puntland, where the Jowle IDP Camp is located, is relatively safer than other regions of Somalia but still hosts a significant number of internally displaced people. Mr. Mohamud, who started as a volunteer at the camp in 2013, felt a deep desire to help marginalized communities in Somalia, leading him to pursue a career in public health.
Over the years, Mr. Mohamud’s role at the camp has expanded, and he now oversees the entire health clinic, managing a team of employees who serve around 100 patients daily.
Despite his demanding job and family responsibilities, Mr. Mohamud is pursuing a Master of Science in Healthcare Management to further his professional development and enhance the quality of care provided at the camp.
His work at the IDP camp has evolved to address not just healthcare needs but also social issues such as domestic violence, early marriage, and female genital mutilation. He advocates for the full integration of IDPs with their host communities to ensure they receive the same rights and services.
National challenge
Somalia currently has 3.8 million internally displaced individuals due to conflict, insecurity, and environmental challenges. Efforts by individuals like Mr. Mohamud are crucial in providing support and advocating for the rights of displaced populations.
The UN Secretary-General’s Action Agenda on Internal Displacement aims to address the needs of IDPs, prevent new displacement crises, and ensure effective protection and assistance for those facing displacement. Mr. Mohamud’s dedication to serving the community at the Jowle IDP Camp exemplifies the commitment needed to tackle internal displacement challenges in Somalia.
Mr. Mohamud’s work has not gone unnoticed, with camp managers praising his effectiveness and commitment to improving the health and well-being of the residents. His efforts during health crises have saved lives and demonstrated the impact of dedicated healthcare workers in underserved communities.
In conclusion, Mr. Mohamud’s story highlights the resilience and determination of individuals working in challenging environments to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable populations in Somalia. His commitment to professional growth and advocacy for the rights of IDPs serves as an inspiration for others in the field of healthcare and humanitarian aid.