MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – Midwifery is one of the most important professions in Africa and the world, given the global need for skilled and knowledgeable midwives.
Somalia, a country that has collapsed, faces a situation where the quality of healthcare services is poor. There is a shortage of doctors and skilled midwives.
Non-trained traditional midwives who deliver babies still operate in the country, and they sometimes cause risks – such as infant deaths – during childbirth.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Somalia is among the countries with the lowest ratio of doctors to the population. Various health reports indicate that in Somalia, one doctor is expected to care for an average of 20,000 to 25,000 people, which is an overwhelming number.
This shortage is caused by factors such as prolonged conflicts, poor health infrastructure, and economic challenges, leading to many people lacking access to quality healthcare.
Sahro Ibrahim Omar, one of the few midwives trained in delivering care to women, spoke to KAAB TV about the challenges in midwifery services and how solutions can be found.
She says a lot must be done to improve the healthcare system.
“Women and children are the most important part of our society, and the take almost half of the population,” Sahro notes.