21 April 2026, Mogadishu, Somalia – World Health Organization (WHO) Somalia last week brought together its national and state-level field teams to review progress in immunization, polio eradication and health emergency response and set priorities for 2026.
WHO Somalia’s national and state-level field teams convene in Mogadishu to review progress in immunization, polio eradication, and health emergency response, and to set priorities for 2026. Photo credit: Abdirahim Aweis, WHO/Somalia
During the meeting, participants assessed achievements from 2025, examined state-specific challenges and developed integrated operational plans to improve coordination, accountability and data systems.
The teams conducted a comprehensive review of programme performance and developed integrated operational plans to improve coordination, accountability and coverage, identifying gaps in implementation and opportunities to accelerate progress towards universal health and the health-related Sustainable Development Goals.
Field teams from national and state levels engage in discussions, exchanging insights and perspectives during the meeting. Photo credit: Abdirahim Aweis, WHO/Somalia
The discussions emphasized the need for a more bottom-up approach, ensuring that state-level insights shape national strategies and that interventions are better coordinated across sectors.
Sessions on logistics, emergency preparedness and drought response reflected a broader shift towards more integrated and resilient health programming nationwide. Participants highlighted the importance of strengthening last-mile delivery, enhancing preparedness for health emergencies in 2026 and improving responses to ongoing drought conditions.
Participants break into groups for focused discussions and brainstorming on the way forward and priority actions for 2026. Photo credit: Abdirahim Aweis, WHO/Somalia
Sustaining high immunization coverage, closing immunity gaps and strengthening surveillance for polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases were identified as critical priorities.
Group photo of participants following the conclusion of the five-day workshop. Photo credit: Abdirahim Aweis, WHO/Somalia
In his closing remarks, WHO Representative in Somalia Dr Kamil Mohamed urged teams to translate plans into action, calling for stronger collaboration and a continued focus on delivering measurable impact for communities across the country.
Dr. Ahmed Dahir, WHO Somalia’s EPI, Polio and Health Emergency Coordinator, addressing the participants, emphasizing the importance of translating plans into concrete action, strengthening collaboration, sustaining momentum, and delivering measurable impact for communities across Somalia. Photo credit: Abdirahim Aweis, WHO/Somalia
The meeting underscored a shared commitment to move from planning to action, with WHO Somalia, Ministry of Health and its partners prioritizing stronger coordination, improved data systems and integrated approaches to health programming. As teams align efforts for 2026, the focus remains on delivering measurable results, strengthening resilience and ensuring that communities across Somalia benefit from more responsive and effective health services.
For more information, please contact:
Khadar Hared, Communication Officer, WHO Somalia
Tel: +252619800011
Email:
