Doha, Qatar(Mogadishu24)–Somali Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Haji Abubakar, delivered a powerful address at the 71st session of the Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean on October 14, 2024, in Doha, emphasizing the urgent need to accelerate progress in reducing maternal, newborn, and child mortality.

Representing Somalia and the region, the minister highlighted the successful adoption of a key resolution aimed at driving this progress during the 77th World Health Assembly held in May 2024.

At the World Health Assembly, Somalia played a central role in raising awareness about preventable deaths among mothers and children.

Dr. Abubakar urged the international community to unite in providing technical and financial support to implement the critical WHA 77.5 resolution.

“We aimed to draw attention to preventable deaths and galvanize international solidarity for technical and financial support,” he noted, pointing out that six countries are currently off-track to meet the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets for maternal and child mortality, while several others are struggling to maintain their previous achievements amid significant challenges.

The minister called on the World Health Organization (WHO) to continue backing this vital global initiative, stressing the need for sustained commitment across the region, particularly in the face of ongoing emergencies.

“As a region, we need commitment,” Dr. Abubakar emphasized, urging for a concerted effort to overcome the barriers that threaten the health systems in many countries.

This year’s Regional Committee Meeting comes at a critical time for the Eastern Mediterranean region, which is facing ongoing conflicts in the occupied Palestinian territory, Sudan, Yemen, and now Lebanon.

Despite these challenges, the meeting seeks to strengthen collaboration among member states to bolster health systems and improve healthcare outcomes for all.

“Proud to open the 71st session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean in Doha today. Together, we will strengthen our health systems and enhance collaboration for a healthier future,” Dr. Abubakar stated during his opening remarks, reinforcing Somalia’s commitment to playing an active role in regional and global health initiatives.