Somalia Seeks Stronger Regional Health Cooperation at WHO Conference in Cairo

GOOBJOOG NEWS | CAIRO: Somalia’s Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ali Haji Adam, is leading a government delegation at the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 73rd Regional Committee meeting for the Eastern Mediterranean in Cairo, Egypt, as countries discuss strengthening healthcare systems, disease prevention and responses to public health emergencies.

The three-day conference, which opened on October 13, brings together health ministers, senior WHO officials and representatives of international organisations to address pressing health challenges and explore ways to improve regional cooperation.

Adam attended the opening session alongside Somalia’s Ambassador to Egypt, Mohamed Abdi Aware, and senior officials from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

According to the ministry, Somalia’s participation is aimed at strengthening partnerships with regional governments and international health organisations while advancing national priorities in healthcare delivery and disease prevention.

The discussions come as Somalia continues efforts to rebuild its healthcare system after decades of conflict, with limited access to essential medical services, recurring disease outbreaks and climate-related emergencies placing additional pressure on health facilities.

During his stay in Cairo, Adam is expected to hold bilateral meetings with regional counterparts and representatives of international organisations to explore opportunities for closer cooperation in healthcare development, emergency preparedness and disease control.

The WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region comprises 22 countries and territories, including Somalia, and faces a range of public health challenges, from infectious diseases and humanitarian emergencies to gaps in healthcare access.

The annual Regional Committee meeting provides a platform for member states to review health priorities, assess progress and agree on strategies to strengthen healthcare services across the region.

Somalia has been working with WHO and other international partners to expand access to essential healthcare, improve disease surveillance and strengthen its capacity to respond to public health emergencies, particularly in communities affected by conflict, displacement and recurring droughts.