Somalia: strengthening maternal health in hospitals in Bay
In a region where families have long struggled to access maternal and child health services, Maryan Moalin Abdullahi, a 39-year-old mother from Saakow, Middle Juba, received life-saving care at Bayhaaw General Hospital. The hospital is supported by Action Against Hunger through the Damal Caafimaad project.
On May 21, 2025, Maryan arrived in critical condition. She was 38 weeks pregnant and experiencing severe shortness of breath, widespread swelling, and high blood pressure.
The medical team quickly examined her. She had high blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and low oxygen levels. She was immediately placed on oxygen, given IV fluids, and treated with essential medications.
Despite initial efforts, Maryan’s condition worsened. The team prepared her for an emergency Caesarean section. Preoperative care included consent and foetal monitoring.
Maryan gave birth to a baby boy, Abdullahi Ali, weighing just 1.8 kilograms. He was cold, had breathing difficulty, and low blood sugar. He was placed in an incubator and supported with oxygen and glucose.
Thanks to timely care, Abdullahi stabilized. After a week in the neonatal unit, his weight rose by 0.7 Kilograms.
Both Maryan and her baby are being treated at the hospital. Credits: Leila Borow
Maryan’s recovery also progressed. She needed less oxygen, and her swelling reduced. Further tests confirmed dilated cardiomyopathy, a chronic heart condition worsened by pregnancy. She was placed on medication and scheduled for regular follow-up visits.
“We closely monitor her progress,” said Dr. Abdullahi Hassan Hussein (Dr. Shegow) “We stay in contact with the family, and our community health workers keep the hospital informed from within the community.”
Maryan received post-Operative care in the ICU. Both mother and baby recovered safely.
The newborn receives care in the incubator. Credits: Leila Borow
“I was terrified when I arrived, unsure if I would survive,” Maryan recalled. “But the care I received gave me hope and strength to keep fighting.”
Her husband, Ali, was grateful. “Seeing my wife and son come through such a difficult time is a blessing. The hospital’s care saved their lives.”
Maryan is now recovering at home. Abdullahi is breastfeeding well and gaining weight.
The Damal Caafimaad project played a key role in this outcome. Bayhaaw General Hospital, one of 56 health facilities in Bay region, received equipment, supplies, staff training, and salaries through the project. This support enabled rapid and effective response to high-risk maternal cases.
Damal Caafimaad is the Government of Somalia’s flagship health project, aiming to expand access to essential healthcare for crisis-affected families in remote areas. It strengthens public health institutions and supports quality care in underserved districts.
Funded by the World Bank, the project boosts dozens of health centers and improves services for women, children, and displaced populations.
Since January 2025, Bayhaaw General Hospital has safely performed 4 Caesarean sections, and providing vital care to women with complicated deliveries, while 670 has normal delivery.
Maryan’s case shows how frontline health services, when supported and equipped, can save lives and build trust in the health system.
