On 5 th Dec 2024, the Somali Research and Development Institute (SORDI) participated in the first scientific conference of the Somali Medical Association, a landmark event for the Somali medical community. At the conference, SORDI presented pivotal research findings addressing critical health issues in Somalia. Among the key studies shared were:
- Political Economy Analysis (PEA) of MNH Prioritization in Somalia which examined the political and economic dynamics influencing the prioritization of maternal and neonatal health (MNH) in Somalia. It highlighted the challenges and opportunities in aligning national and regional health priorities with the pressing needs of mothers and children.
- Introduction of Mass Market Health Insurance in Somalia This study focused on the feasibility and implications of introducing health insurance for the broader Somali population. The research emphasized a paradigm shift from traditional health funding approaches to sustainable health financing mechanisms that could transform healthcare access and equity in Somalia.
SORDI’s Chairperson, Prof. Dalmar underscored the significance of these studies for Somalia’s healthcare landscape:
“It is a great honor for us at SORDI and the EQUAL project to contribute to the first-ever scientific conference of the Somali Medical Association. Our research reflects years of effort to provide evidence-based insights into the challenges facing Somali mothers and children. The findings underscore the importance of strategic policy and programmatic changes to improve maternal and neonatal health utcomes”
The research presented on PEA of MNH prioritization in Somalia was part of the broader EQUAL project, which operates across four countries: Somalia, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Nigeria. Funded by UK Aid with a total investment of $11.3 million from the UK government, the project aims to address maternal and neonatal health challenges in fragile and conflict-affected settings.
In Somalia, the EQUAL project focuses on three critical components:
- Political and Economic Analysis of MNH Prioritization: Examining how political and economic factors influence the prioritization of maternal and neonatal health (MNH) policies and services, particularly during conflict.
- Community-Level MNH Programs: Evaluating the capacity of CHWs to provide high- quality, evidence-based MNH services in rural areas.
- Midwifery Workforce Development: Understanding factors affecting midwives’ participation, retention, performance, and resilience during insecurity.
Prof. Dalmar highlighted that “the EQUAL project seeks to bridge the gap between research and practice by generating robust, evidence-based data to inform health policies and strategies. The ultimate goal is to ensure that decision-makers have the tools and insights needed to address the critical health issues affecting mothers and children in participating countries. The project’s outcomes aim to foster equitable access to quality healthcare and build resilient health systems.”
The Somali Medical Association’s first scientific conference provided a unique platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among health professionals. SORDI’s participation underscores the importance of integrating local research into global health initiatives. With continued efforts, the findings from the EQUAL project and similar research initiatives can serve as catalysts for transformative change in healthcare systems, ensuring better health outcomes for mothers and children across the region.
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