Effect of United States – Somalia Partnership on Universal Healthcare Coverage for Women in Mogadishu City

In Somalia, women are at the greatest risk of a weak healthcare system. The prevailing systemic challenges limits the potential to realize the Universal Health Coverage by 2030. Considering that women are at greatest risk of failure of UHC objectives, the current study aimed; to establish policy priorities and actual implementation mechanisms towards realization of Universal Healthcare coverage in Mogadishu City. Secondly, to examine the extent to which US-Somalia partnership in workforce development enhance provision of quality health services among women in Mogadishu City. Finally, to analyze how the US-Somalia partnership in healthcare financing enhance access and affordability of basic health services among women in Mogadishu City. In terms of methodology, the study employed mixed methods research design and both quantitative and qualitative techniques were utilized in gathering and analyzing data. On the first research objective, the study indicated that through diplomatic ties with Washington, Mogadishu had strengthened efforts to domesticate the UHC goals and in particular improving access to standard healthcare to women. The main concerns however, remain implementation of healthcare strategic plans evident by weak coordination between the Federal Government and non-state actors. The study demonstrated that US-Somalia collaboration had enhanced workforce development in the areas of exchange programs, continuous professional development and support to local medical training institutes. However, remuneration levels and working conditions for healthcare professionals remained a major challenge in Mogadishu region. The study findings also showed a general frustration among the top leadership of the ministries of health about the lack of funding and technical support to develop the health workforce. The study revealed that US-Somalia partnership had assisted in women access to primary healthcare services whereas access to secondary and specialized treatment was still unaffordable for Somalia citizens. The study concludes that there has been a lot of support from US-allied agencies to provide financial and technical assistance to the Somalia health ministry. The government have a health cluster which is quite active, including in terms of humanitarian coordination. However, the main challenge is that resources required to implement are scarce and this ultimately impacts on long- term change and commitment to improving health services and systems strengthening.