By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Minister of Health has officially dismissed the Director General of Banadir Hospital, following a government directive aimed at restructuring the hospital’s leadership to improve healthcare services and accountability.
The decision comes after a highly publicized incident in which a Somali woman gave birth outside Banadir Hospital, reportedly after being denied urgent medical care. The case sparked public outrage, widespread media coverage, and criticism of the hospital’s management, particularly concerning the treatment of maternal patients.
Sources within the hospital administration confirmed that the dismissal followed instructions from senior government officials. They stated that the leadership change is intended to strengthen hospital governance, accelerate the delivery of medical services, and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Banadir Hospital, one of Mogadishu’s largest and most important medical facilities, has long been at the center of concerns regarding maternal and child healthcare, infrastructure limitations, and administrative inefficiencies. Healthcare experts in Somalia say that leadership accountability is critical to improving maternal health outcomes in the country, where maternal mortality rates remain among the highest in the world.
In a statement, the Ministry of Health emphasized that ensuring safe, timely, and efficient medical care for mothers and newborns is a top priority. The Ministry also pledged to implement new monitoring measures to prevent negligence and improve patient services across the hospital.
Analysts say the dismissal could serve as a signal of the government’s commitment to reforming healthcare institutions, particularly in high-profile facilities like Banadir Hospital, which serves thousands of residents in Mogadishu and surrounding regions.
At the same time, healthcare workers and civil society advocates have called for additional measures, including staff training, investment in emergency obstetric care, and stricter operational protocols, to prevent further tragic incidents.
The Ministry has not yet announced a replacement for the director, but sources indicate that a new leadership appointment is expected soon, with an emphasis on professionals with proven experience in hospital administration and maternal health services.
Meanwhile, public reactions on social media have been mixed, with many Somalis expressing relief at the swift action, while others urge long-term structural reforms rather than one-time dismissals.
This high-profile dismissal underscores the ongoing challenges facing Somalia’s healthcare system, including resource shortages, infrastructure gaps, and staff accountability, while highlighting the government’s increasing focus on maternal and child health as a national priority.
