Somalia’s health system only reaches 40% of the population, leaving more than 9 million people without basic health services. The country’s current population, which has exceeded 15 million, is growing at a rate of 2.9% per year and is expected to exceed 20 million by 2030.
Maternal mortality rates are high, with 732 female deaths per 100,000 live births, and an infant mortality rate of 85 per 1,000 live births. About 40% of children under the age of five are malnourished, and 3.5 million people are experiencing food insecurity. The youth population, which constitutes more than 70% of the country’s population, indicates the need for additional investment in the healthcare sector to meet future needs.
Maternal and Child Health Challenges
Maternal mortality is extremely high in Somalia, with 732 deaths per 100,000 live births, and over 6,000 per year. More women suffer from it. About 60% of women give birth without a skilled midwife, contributing to increased mortality.
Somalia has an infant mortality rate of 85 per 1,000 live births, and 40% of children under 5 are malnourished, with 22% suffering from stunting. Only 22% of children receive full vaccinations, leaving a large proportion vulnerable to preventable diseases.
The Impact of Nutrition on Population Health
About 40% of children under the age of five are malnourished, of which 30% are stunted, 15% are wasted, and 20% are underweight. This malnutrition accounts for 50% of childhood deaths in Somalia. 60% of the adult population suffers from malnutrition, and 50% of people live below the poverty line, which makes it difficult to access adequate amounts of food. The economic cost of malnutrition is 4.2% of Somalia’s GDP annually, limiting the country’s growth.
The Role of Youth in Shaping Future Healthcare Needs
More than 70% of Somalia’s population is under the age of 30, and about 40% of the youth are between the ages of 10 and 24. This youth segment will make up 85% of the country’s workforce by 2030, resulting in a dire need for investment in the areas of education, mental health, and reproductive health.
Addressing the health needs of these young people is critical, as they face unemployment issues, with 67% of youth between the ages of 15 and 34 having limited access to health facilities. This situation is not only a hindrance to their welfare but is also becoming a major obstacle to the overall development of the country.
Somalia faces several serious health problems, including a maternal mortality rate of 732 per 100,000 live births and an infant mortality rate of 85 per 1,000 live births. About 40% of children in the country are malnourished, with 30% stunting and 15% wasted.
However, if Somalia invests in health infrastructure and services for the youth, who make up 70% of the country’s population, it could increase life expectancy and reduce preventable deaths, which would be economic, and it will be useful for social development.
