By Horn Africa News
Mogadishu — India has delivered a 10-ton shipment of medical aid to Somalia, following an official request made by the Somali government. The aid, which arrived in Mogadishu on Saturday aboard a special cargo flight, includes essential medical equipment such as hospital beds, surgical tools, and other critical supplies intended to support the country’s struggling healthcare system.
According to Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, who announced the delivery via a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the assistance reflects India’s commitment to supporting Somalia during times of need. “India stands with Somalia in its efforts to strengthen its healthcare capabilities,” he wrote.
The Somali government has designated the aid specifically for use by the Somali National Army.
Military medical services in the country have long struggled to meet the needs of injured soldiers, with many lacking access to adequate treatment due to shortages in both equipment and resources. Officials say this latest shipment will help improve the quality of care for wounded personnel.
Despite Somali authorities regularly announcing improvements in national revenue and economic growth, the country continues to rely heavily on foreign assistance — a point critics say undermines its claims of institutional self-reliance. Some analysts view the continued dependence on external aid as a sign of weakness in the government’s ability to provide for its people.
Nonetheless, the Indian-supplied medical aid is expected to ease some of the pressure on Somalia’s under-resourced health sector and provide much-needed relief for frontline troops and medical staff.
The delivery comes amid ongoing efforts by Somalia to rebuild its institutions and stabilize the nation after decades of conflict and underdevelopment.
