Mogadishu, 18th June 2023 - The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Somalia and King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KS Relief) announced the launch of a groundbreaking project to improve access to quality maternal and reproductive health for vulnerable and displacement-affected populations in Somalia.
This collaborative initiative between UNFPA and KS-Relief aims to address the critical healthcare needs of vulnerable communities, particularly women and girls impacted by displacement and humanitarian crises. The project will enhance access to comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care, strengthen capacity in reproductive health services, and improve supply chain management, benefiting vulnerable communities in Somalia.
The inaugural event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, including His Excellency, Honorable Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Mawlid, Ambassador to Somalia from Saudi Arabia, and His Excellency Sabaax Juneed, Ambassador of the Arab League. Representatives from various UN agencies, The Commissioner of the Somali National Disaster Management Agency (SoDMa), Mr. Mahamuud Moallim, and the Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Haji Adan, were also in attendance.
During the event, His Excellency, Honorable Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Mawlid, Ambassador to Somalia from Saudi Arabia, reaffirmed the unwavering support of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Somalia. He emphasized the significance of the health and humanitarian project, stating, "This project aims to provide essential services for pregnant women and girls in Somalia, strengthening national institutions and health service providers to build a responsive health infrastructure. It is an extension of our developmental and humanitarian initiatives, guided by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz and His Royal Highness Prince Muhammad bin Salman." His Excellency also expressed aspirations for future endeavors, stating, "We aspire to launch more projects that foster a bright and promising future."
Mr. Niyi Ojuolape, UNFPA Representative, acknowledged the generous support of KS-Relief and emphasized the critical nature of the project. He stated, "This project addresses the urgent health needs of vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls affected by displacement and humanitarian crises. By improving access to quality maternal and reproductive health services, we save lives and ensure the well-being of Somali women and girls." Mr. Yaziid Hamoud, Head of KS-Relief Somalia, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the project will enhance access to positive health services, maternal health, and overall quality of life for vulnerable communities in six regions. He underscored the importance of strengthening the capacity of national institutions to respond to the health needs of the population, especially women.
Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), Mr. Mahamuud Moallim, expressed his appreciation for the support provided by KS-Relief and emphasized the need for collective action and cooperation to prevent maternal deaths and ensure the safety of mothers. He stated, "We recognize that ensuring the safety of mothers is essential to upholding human rights, and at the same time, we acknowledge that hundreds of women lose their lives every day due to preventable complications during pregnancy and childbirth. So we must come together and make all possible efforts to lessen and limit the effects of this issue."
Dr. Ali Haji Adan, the Federal Minister of Health, welcomed the support from Saudi Arabia and acknowledged UNFPA's pivotal role as a partner. He commended the Ministry of Health's partnership with UNFPA Somalia in tirelessly providing essential healthcare services to the people of Somalia. Dr. Adan expressed the government's excitement to be part of this critical project launch, aimed at improving the quality of the healthcare system in Somalia. He deeply appreciated the collaboration between UNFPA and KS-Relief, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support.
The event marks an important milestone in the collaborative efforts of UNFPA and KS-Relief to improve maternal and reproductive health in Somalia. With a shared commitment to the well-being and empowerment of vulnerable populations, this project sets a strong foundation for positive change.
Seated left to right: Ambassador to Somalia from Saudi Arabia, His Excellency, Honorable Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Mawlid, Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Haji Adan, Commissioner of the Somali National Disaster Management Agency of (SoDMa), Mr. Mahamuud Moallim, UNFPA Somalia Representative Niyi Ojuolape, and by Head of KS-Relief Somalia, Mr. Yaziid Hamoud, during the launch ceremony.
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