The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted health system gains and further exacerbated population vulnerabilities. With a medium attack rate for COVID-19 over the course of 2021, an estimated 20 percent of the Somali population (2.5 million) will need to be reached with some form of COVID-19 response action; from awareness, preventative care to testing and treatment services. The health system is not adequately equipped to provide a minimum amount of coverage for equitable access to health care resulting in increased morbidity and mortality.

The pandemic has already severely disrupted access to life-saving sexual and reproductive health services. It is worsening existing inequalities for women and girls, and deepening discrimination against other marginalized groups. Sexual and reproductive health care services are being under- prioritized, which will lead to higher maternal mortality and morbidity levels. All women and girls must have access to a continuum of sexual and reproductive health services, including antenatal, postnatal care, and screening tests according to national guidelines and standards.