MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains alarmingly prevalent in Somalia, with nearly 99% of women aged 15–49 having undergone the procedure, one of the highest rates globally.
The most severe form, Type III (infibulation), is the most common in Somalia, often resulting in severe bleeding, infections, and, in some cases, death among young girls.
Health professionals warn that FGM causes devastating health complications, including life-threatening bleeding, infections, and difficulties during childbirth. It also contributes to psychological trauma and long-term damage to women’s reproductive health.
Somalia has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 621 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births were recorded in Somalia in 2020, highlighting the dire state of maternal health services in the country.
Contributing factors include limited access to healthcare, poorly equipped maternal care facilities, and complications from FGM.
One facility working to address these challenges is the Caawiye Mother and Child Health (MCH) Center, located on the outskirts of Mogadishu. Operated by a local NGO, the center provides essential health services to women and children from displaced communities.
“Over 100 patients visit daily, and we sometimes handle more than 15 cases during the night,” said Sahro Mohamed Ahmed, a midwife at the center. However, resource limitations mean some patients must be referred to hospitals for further care.
FGM remains a significant issue in the IDP camps, where many women lack awareness about reproductive health. This, coupled with the prevalence of FGM, leaves new mothers at high risk of complications during childbirth.
Efforts are underway to address these issues, including public awareness campaigns and healthcare initiatives. However, experts stress that more needs to be done to improve healthcare services and raise awareness to protect the lives of Somali women and girls.
For more insights, listen to Kaab Podcast, where midwife Sahro Mohamed Ahmed shares her experiences from the frontline of maternal healthcare in Mogadishu.