In a significant milestone toward improving maternal and newborn health in Somalia, UNFPA Somalia recently facilitated a crucial workshop in Kenya to help establish a national midwifery regulatory framework for Somalia. This initiative, championed by Somalia’s Ministry of Health (MOH) and the National Health Professions Council (NHPC), reflects a shared regional commitment to strengthening midwifery and supporting health professionals who are often the backbone of healthcare, especially in underserved regions.
The five-day workshop brought Somali representatives together with the Nursing Council of Kenya in an engaging exchange of insights and strategies. As part of this hands-on collaboration, the Somali team closely examined Kenya's midwifery regulatory framework, learning from their approach to midwife training, accreditation, and professional autonomy. By observing Kenya’s framework in action, the Somali stakeholders gained insights into adapting and implementing a regulatory system that meets Somalia's unique needs, ensuring that midwives can deliver quality care for women and newborns in Somalia, even amid challenging situations.
This workshop was more than an exchange of technical knowledge; it was a powerful demonstration of regional unity and commitment to empowering midwives in Somalia as autonomous, highly skilled professionals. The collaborative effort is part of the "Strengthening Midwifery Education and Practice in Somalia" (SMEPS) project, a five-year initiative generously funded by Global Affairs Canada and backed by the Canadian Embassy. This investment in midwifery not only aims to improve health outcomes for Somali mothers and children but also to elevate the profession of midwifery itself, advocating for midwives as essential contributors to the national healthcare system.
During their visit, the Somali team also met with Kenya's Ministry of Health officials, further strengthening ties between the two countries. The courtesy visit underscored a shared vision for improving healthcare across borders, focusing on maternal health as a foundation for community resilience and long-term development. This collaboration marks an exciting step toward creating a regulatory environment in Somalia that ensures midwives have the resources, training, and support needed to offer high-quality care, regardless of the circumstances.
UNFPA Somalia is proud to support this effort, alongside Canada’s steadfast backing. Together, they are paving the way for a healthier future for Somali women, their families, and the communities they nurture, one step closer to a healthcare system that empowers and protects every mother and child.
