Friday November 7, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s government has launched an
urgent investigation into a tragic incident in which a woman gave birth at the
entrance of Mogadishu’s Banadir Hospital after being denied emergency medical
care, officials said Friday.
In a statement, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare
ordered a full review of the hospital’s CCTV footage and demanded a detailed
report from the hospital administration to verify the circumstances surrounding
the incident. The ministry described the event as “deeply concerning” and vowed
accountability if negligence or misconduct is confirmed.
“The Ministry is committed to protecting the safety of
Somali mothers and babies,” the statement said. “If the investigation finds
negligence, error, or irresponsibility by any member of the staff or hospital
administration, legal and administrative action will be taken.”
The National Health Professionals Council also confirmed it
had received video footage showing the mother giving birth on the hospital’s
front steps without assistance. The council said it would conduct a joint
investigation with the Health Ministry and “promptly share the findings with
the public.”
Witnesses said the woman arrived at Banadir Hospital, one of
the country’s largest public maternity facilities, seeking urgent care but was
told to remain outside. With no medical support, she delivered her baby at the
main gate, aided only by an elderly passerby.
Both the mother and the newborn were in critical condition
following the delivery, according to witnesses at the scene.
Health Minister Ali Haji Aden confirmed the incident
occurred on October 26, emphasizing that it was not related to financial issues
or inability to pay. He said hospital staff claimed the baby was born
prematurely and was referred to another facility, but insisted that explanation
“does not absolve responsibility.”
“This incident is unacceptable,” Aden said. “Emergency
medical services are a fundamental right. Once the investigation is complete,
the ministry will take appropriate administrative and legal action.”
The case has sparked outrage across Somalia, prompting
widespread calls for accountability and reform within the country’s strained
public health system.