MSF: Seeking vital healthcare services in Somalia

19 June 2025 - In a quiet corner of the paediatric ward at the Médecins Sans Frontières/ Doctors Without Borders (MSF)-supported hospital in Galkayo South, Somalia, a mother gently cares for her 18-month-old son. Her story mirrors the struggles faced by many Somali mothers seeking healthcare for their children.

Originally from Abudwaq District in Galgadud, Halima* travelled almost 12 hours by bus to reach the hospital, spending over $50 on transportation and meals, an amount raised partly by borrowing money and partly by selling a few goats. Her husband works in construction, and though she expresses gratitude for their modest income, she acknowledges life would be easier if they earned more.

Halima arrived at the hospital eight days ago after exhausting her options locally. “I went around the city looking for help, spending a lot of money, but didn't find the care I needed,” she explains. Ultimately, she followed the advice of a local doctor and the recommendations of others who previously sought care at the MSF-supported hospital.

Her son, Faisal, exhibited alarming symptoms of severe weight loss, diarrhoea, and vomiting. Doctors in her area confirmed her fears—her child was severely malnourished. Prior to their arrival, the baby’s diet had been limited to camel milk and breastfeeding, inadequate for his nutritional needs.

At the MSF-supported hospital in Galkayo South, Faisal is now receiving therapeutic milk, regular medical care, daily nutritious meals, and essential supplies. Halima notes that such specialised care was not available in her hometown, where healthcare services are limited and costly.

Halima hopes her story will highlight the need for better healthcare services closer to home, making lifesaving interventions accessible to mothers like her without the burden of long, expensive journeys.

*Name changed for patient confidentiality

Haboon's Journey: Seeking Safe Childbirth

Haboon Ali gently cradles her three-day-old son, Suldaan, as she sits quietly in the maternity ward of the MSF-supported hospital in Galkayo South. Having travelled over two hours across rugged terrain from Saddex-Higlo, a small village approximately 55 kilometres away, she reflects on the difficult decision she made to seek healthcare far from home.

"We have no functioning healthcare facilities in Saddex-Higlo," Haboon explains. "Whenever there is a health issue, we must come to Galkayo."

Haboon, a homemaker, recounts her recent experience. Her husband, a daily worker, paid $40 for transportation to the hospital—a significant amount for the family, but necessary due to complications during her prolonged labor.

"I decided to come when I experienced complications," Haboon recalls. Upon arrival, she was immediately taken into surgery for an emergency cesarean section, a procedure crucial to ensuring the safety of both herself and Suldaan.

"The staff here were very kind and supportive," Haboon says warmly. After three days under the careful attention of MSF medical staff, both mother and child are healthy and stable.

Yet Haboon wishes for a future where traveling long distances for basic healthcare will not be necessary. "We desperately need a well-equipped hospital in Saddex-Higlo," she explains. "This would greatly serve our community and save lives."

Abdiwali’s Story: Urgent Care for a Snakebite

Abdiwali Ahmed sits beside his five-year-old son, Abdikhaliq, in the paediatric ward of the MSF-supported hospital in Galkayo South. They both have travelled nearly two hours from their home in Roox, about 47 kilometres away, following a traumatic snakebite incident.

Three days after Abdikhaliq was bitten on the leg by a snake, Abdiwali made the difficult decision to seek medical care in Galkayo, delaying due to financial constraints. “At first, I thought of going to Harfo, a closer district, but eventually decided to come here,” he explains. The journey cost over $60, generously supported by contributions from his community.

Upon arrival, Abdikhaliq underwent surgery to treat an abscess resulting from the bite and received crucial anti-venom medication. “We chose this hospital because we knew we could get free care here, unlike other places,” Abdiwali shares.

Abdiwali, currently unemployed after his vehicle broke down, acknowledges the support and care received at the hospital. He emphasises the need for accessible healthcare in his community.

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