Mobile Clinics Reach Out to Mothers and Newborns in Puntland

Years of conflict, political instability, and severe underfunding have devastated Somalia's healthcare system, resulting in a critical shortage of medical facilities and healthcare professionals, especially in rural and conflict-affected areas. This has led to high maternal and infant mortality rates, as well as limited access to basic healthcare information, especially for internally displaced persons. 

World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated globally from August 1-7, raises awareness and support for breastfeeding, advocating for better health outcomes for newborns and mothers. Breastfeeding is a cornerstone of child health; breastfeeding awareness is crucial because it provides new mothers with essential information about the numerous health benefits for both baby and mother.  

In Garowe, the capital of Somalia’s Puntland State, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Puntland’s Ministry of Health are working together to overcome geographical barriers and deliver essential healthcare services directly to the doors of displaced populations. Through seven mobile clinics, IOM is providing critical medical care to the communities of Burtinle, Dan Gorayo, Xamur, Abaarey, Garowe, Godobjiran and Jariban – with a focus on post-natal care. 

Breastfeeding is a major focus of the clinics. Mothers are educated on the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and counselled on optimal breastfeeding practices. This information is crucial in preventing common breastfeeding problems and ensuring infants receive the best start in life. Hygiene and sanitation practices to protect the quality of breast milk and complementary foods are also covered, ensuring that the mothers have comprehensive knowledge to support their infants' health.  

Breastfeeding offers essential nutrients and antibodies needed for a baby's growth and development," said Dr. Abdi Hassan, an IOM doctor.  "It also allows for a unique bond between mother and child, which is invaluable for emotional well-being for both." 

Since the launch of the first mobile clinic in May 2013, IOM Somalia has reached thousands with services including routine consultation, maternal health, nutrition and immunizations. Vehicles equipped with essential medical supplies, and staffed by dedicated healthcare professionals, bring vital infant and young child feeding (IYCF) services directly to the heart of underserved communities. 

Between July 2023 – July 2024, through the seven clinics in Puntland, IOM reached 5,432 women and 6,789 children under five years old with a range of IYCF services. In areas where the nearest health facility might be five to 20 kilometres away, the arrival of the mobile clinics means that mothers no longer have to make arduous journeys to receive the care they need. Instead, the care comes to them, bridging a critical gap in health service delivery. The impact of these mobile clinics extends beyond immediate healthcare. Bringing services closer to home reduces the burden on mothers, allowing them to spend more time caring for their families. 

The clinic’s support also focuses on mothers, by screening and treating maternal malnutrition, providing iron and folic acid supplements, and offering counselling on maternal dietary diversity and intake. Education on the prevention and treatment of maternal anaemia is also provided, ensuring that mothers are healthy and capable of providing the best care for their infants. 

Another mother, Halima Abidikadir, informed her peers during an information session that breast milk has the required nutrition for better growth among children. 

"It does not cost a thing," she added. 

Beyond breastfeeding support, the clinics provide vital services such as immunization, growth monitoring, and treatment for malnutrition. These services are particularly critical in regions grappling with food insecurity and malnutrition. 

This year, during World Breastfeeding Week, IOM intensified its efforts, reaching 840 mothers and children in Garowe with vital breastfeeding support and education. 

These activities were carried out under the Nagaad Project, which is funded by the World Bank through the Federal Government of Somalia and is implemented by the municipalities of Mogadishu, Garowe, Baidoa, Kisamyo, Beledweyne and Dhusamareb.