Healthcare Scenario in Bosaso -Somalia

Bosaso, the economic capital of Puntland, serves as a major commercial hub and port city. Its strategic location has contributed to rapid urbanization, but healthcare services remain underdeveloped, with limited access to quality medical care, particularly for the rural population.

Key Disease Burdens in Bosaso

1. Communicable Diseases:
   • Malaria, cholera, and tuberculosis remain significant health concerns, especially in overcrowded urban areas and refugee settlements.
   • Cholera outbreaks have been reported frequently due to poor sanitation and lack of access to clean water.
   • Hepatitis B and C infections are rising due to limited screening and vaccination programs.
2. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs):
   • Rising cases of diabetes and hypertension have been linked to urban lifestyle changes and limited access to healthcare facilities for regular screenings.
   • A recent study found that cardiovascular diseases account for a growing proportion of deaths in urban areas of Puntland.
3. Maternal and Child Health:
   • Limited access to skilled birth attendants and inadequate maternal healthcare services have contributed to high maternal and infant mortality rates.
   • Malnutrition among pregnant women and children remains a critical challenge, exacerbated by food insecurity in the region.
4. Malnutrition and Food Insecurity:
   • A 2024 report by UNICEF highlighted that nearly 40% of children in Puntland suffer from acute malnutrition, with Bosaso being one of the most affected areas.
5. Mental Health:
   • The ongoing humanitarian crisis has led to a significant rise in PTSD and depression cases, but mental health services remain largely unavailable.

     Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities in Bosaso