Somalia

Somalia has been coping with civil war since 1991 when the government collapsed and much of the country’s infrastructure, including health services, fell apart as a result.

Life expectancy is just 47 years and the maternal mortality rate is one of the world’s highest at 1,400 per 100,000 live births. Many of these maternal deaths occur because of poor quality health services and a lack of access to emergency obstetric care.

The high prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) also leads to a higher risk of complications and death for women during childbirth.

Strengthening the healthcare system
Health Poverty Action is part of a coalition that is building the capacity of the healthcare system in the Somaliland area, through improving training institutions, the skills of health workers and through radio-based health education to create awareness and demand for services.

Providing life-saving health services for internally displaced people
In Hargeisa we are improving health services for internally displaced people, by providing training, equipment, health education and counselling.

Reducing levels of HIV/AIDS in rural communities
Through radio shows, theatre performances, road shows and training journalists, we are increasing awareness of HIV, and helping to reduce the stigma associated with it.