On the frontlines in Bossaso

Bossaso, 28 Dec 2024: In the heart of Puntland, the Isniino Health centre stands as a pillar of hope for families navigating the challenges of displacement and limited access to healthcare. Among its dedicated staff is Fadumo Mire, a healthcare worker and mother of seven. For over 12 years, Fadumo has been a trusted caregiver in her community, and her recent completion of a UNICEF-supported training on Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illnesses (IMNCI) has taken her skills to the next level.

The IMNCI training equips healthcare workers with the tools to diagnose and treat common childhood illnesses. Fadumo reflects on the impact of this training: “It’s more than just knowledge; it’s the ability to save lives. I feel confident addressing complex cases and guiding mothers on how to protect their children’s health.”

Fadumo cares for Safiyo Ali, a mother of eight who resides in Isniino IDP camp in Bossaso. Safiyo arrived at the health centre seeking treatment for her youngest child, who was suffering from diarrhoea. “This health centre is my lifeline,” Safiyo shares. “The care provided here has kept my children healthy and strong. Fadumo and her team treat us with kindness, respect and understanding.”

The support Safiyo receives extends beyond immediate treatment. At Isniino Health Centre, mothers like her benefit from immunising their children and receiving nutritional counselling and maternal care. These services, offered across 15 health facilities in Puntland, reach more than 200,000 people annually. The program’s approach ensures that vulnerable families receive not only medical care but also education on preventing illness.

Fadumo’s commitment is clear as she balances her work and being a mother. “I see myself in the women who come here,” she says. “We share the same struggles and hopes. I just want to give them the knowledge and support they need to keep their families healthy.”

Somalia faces significant healthcare challenges, with only 27 per cent of the population having access to affordable health services. However, through the efforts of dedicated healthcare workers like Fadumo, the efforts of the Somali Government and the support of global partners, progress is being made to improve access and care for those in need.

The contribution from the Saudi Esports Federation’s Gamers Without Borders, under the supervision of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), has been instrumental in making this progress possible. Their support has not only increased life-saving treatments but also strengthened local healthcare systems, ensuring that facilities like Isniino can continue to serve communities in need.