Mogadishu, 28 May 2025 — At The Palms Hotel in Mogadishu, government leaders, UN officials, health professionals, civil society organizations, and courageous survivors came together to commemorate the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula under the global theme: “Her health, her right: Shaping a future without fistula.”
A Call to End Injustice and Isolation
In her keynote address, Dr. Mary Otieno, UNFPA Representative in Somalia, emphasized the human rights dimension of the issue.
“The continued existence of obstetric fistula is a clear violation of a woman’s right to health,” Dr. Otieno said.
“We must act urgently and collectively to eliminate the root causes—poverty, early childbearing, and inadequate maternal care. Fistula is not just a hole in the birth canal; it is a hole in our healthcare system.”
She reiterated UNFPA's long-standing commitment to addressing fistula in Somalia through investment in maternal health, gender equality, and holistic survivor support.
Government Action: Expanding Access to Care
Representing the Federal Government of Somalia, Dr. Maryama Mohamed Hussein, State Minister of Health, acknowledged how far the country has come:
“There was a time when fistula treatment was available in only one hospital in Somalia. Today, through collaboration and dedication, care is accessible in multiple locations. That is progress.”
She affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to scaling up maternal health services:
“No Somali woman or girl should suffer in silence. Fistula is preventable and treatable. Together, we will end it.”
A Voice of Strength: Survivor Testimony
One of the most moving moments came when Hamdi, a 32-year-old mother and fistula survivor, shared her story.
“For years, I lived in silence — abandoned and isolated. But after receiving care at Deynile Hospital, I regained my health and my dignity,” she said.
“Today, I urge all Somali women to seek timely maternal care and call on men to stand with us, not against us.”
Hamdi’s voice echoed the resilience of thousands of Somali women and the urgent need for community support and health system strengthening.
Hope on the Horizon
Somalia continues to bear one of the world’s highest burdens of obstetric fistula, with thousands of estimated cases. Yet, as this year's commemoration made clear, there is hope — hope born from partnership, advocacy, and the courage of women who rise above adversity.
The day ended with a shared call to action: to prevent new cases, treat existing ones, and restore the dignity of every woman affected.
