Somalia’s Oxygen Lifeline Opens in Mogadishu
By: Abdullahi Nur Osman, CEO of the Hormuud Salam Foundation
Last week marked an important milestone in Somalia’s history — the opening of Somalia’s first public oxygen plant. This is an important step in strengthening our public health systems which are crucial in times of crisis, as well as for improving the daily lives of all Somalis.
As COVID- 19 cases have risen so has the global demand for medical oxygen, and now, many countries are experiencing desperate shortages. As a result, the cost of oxygen has rapidly increased. One cylinder of oxygen usually costs around $50 in Somalia but can reach up to $400 or $500 (at private hospitals) because of the shortage.
With COVID cases on the rise, the lack of access to medical resources is a challenge that must be addressed. Fortunately, The Hormuud Salaam Foundation is well-positioned to respond because of our existing humanitarian work. Through the support of our international friends, the oxygen plant is now up and running and is providing vital assistance to those who need it most.
The plant has been installed in the beating heart of Mogadishu, at the Banadir Maternity and Children Hospital, and in a way, it is the perfect metaphor for Somalia. Despite having to overcome so much, through determination, private sector support, and international cooperation Somalia is beginning to create sustainable solutions to its challenges.
Whilst getting the plant up and running marks a significant milestone for Somalia, it also highlights some of the challenges the nation continues to face. As a lack of equipment seriously cripples Somalia’s public health capabilities. Without private sector support, Somalis who are ill from Covid-19 are more likely to die than patients elsewhere. The work that HSF does in supporting the efforts of the government and the health services is vital to the continued development of Somalia and its recovery from the pandemic.
This is why, in partnership with the government, we reached out to our friends in Turkey to source the oxygen plant. Yet, Somalia will continue to need more support from the international community. As of last week, only 1% of Somalia’s 15 million citizens are fully vaccinated. A Lack of effective vaccine distribution will continue to prolong the pandemic, which has already claimed nearly 5 million lives globally. It is important therefore that Hormuud, and the international community continue to work together to provide vital support to the Somali government going forward in the fight against Covid-19.
