Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-Somalia is grappling with a severe cholera outbreak, with a significant increase in cases and deaths reported in 2023, according to a recent World Health Organization (WHO) report. The country, along with Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Malawi, has been among the hardest hit globally.

WHO revealed a 13% rise in global cholera cases in 2023, alongside a staggering 71% increase in deaths compared to the previous year. Over 4,000 preventable deaths occurred, highlighting the disease’s devastating impact.

In Somalia, more than 10,000 suspected or confirmed cases were reported last year. Ongoing conflicts, population displacement, and climate change-driven extreme weather conditions have exacerbated the spread of cholera. Vulnerable communities, particularly those with limited access to clean water and sanitation, are most affected.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted the global shortage of cholera vaccines, which has hampered response efforts. Only 36 million doses were produced in 2023, far below the demand from 14 affected countries, including Somalia. The shortage has forced the adoption of a single-dose strategy to conserve limited supplies.

As cholera remains a significant global health threat in 2024, WHO continues to call for urgent action, including $50 million in emergency funding, to combat outbreaks in countries like Somalia, where underdevelopment and fragile healthcare systems pose ongoing challenges.