Mogadishu, July 28 (QNA) - Qatar Charity (QC) has launched its 2026-2027 health plan in Somalia, comprising 48 projects across 9 major programs with the objective of benefiting 49,834 people and seeks to expand access to essential and specialized healthcare services for the most vulnerable communities.

The initiatives address key health priorities, including malnutrition and blindness, the provision of medicines and medical supplies, pediatric heart surgeries, chronic disease treatment, and the rehabilitation of dialysis centers.

The projects are designed to ease the burden on low-income families and ensure timely access to appropriate healthcare services.

The malnutrition treatment program accounts for the largest share of the plan, with 21 projects set to benefit 21,672 people. Activities will include early detection of malnutrition cases, distribution of therapeutic foods, and awareness sessions for mothers and caregivers on proper nutrition and the prevention of related health complications.

The "Ibsar" program will include 10 projects to combat blindness, benefiting 10,000 people through eye examinations, necessary surgeries, and the distribution of prescription eyeglasses. These interventions are expected to help patients restore their vision and resume their daily activities more effectively.

Under its treatment services component, QC will provide medicines and medical supplies to around 17,300 beneficiaries, strengthening the capacity of health facilities to respond to growing needs and ensuring the continuity of essential medical services for vulnerable groups in targeted areas.

The "Merciful Hearts" initiative will carry out 3 projects to support 70 children with heart conditions by providing surgeries, medical care, and follow-up services.

The plan also features the "Hope" project, which will provide life-saving treatment for 200 beneficiaries; chronic disease treatment for 500 beneficiaries; the "Smile Making" program for 60 beneficiaries; and the rehabilitation of 5 dialysis centers, benefiting 32 patients.

Ibrahim Al Janahi, Qatar Charity's Director of Development Operations, said the initiatives were made possible by virtue of the generosity of donors who contributed to the 27th of Ramadan campaign for 2026.

He emphasized that QC remains committed to implementing high-impact projects that respond to urgent health needs and improve the quality of life of beneficiaries.

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Maryam Mohamed Hussein, commended QC's role in supporting Somalia's health sector. She said the new projects represent an important contribution to efforts aimed at improving medical services in the country and underscore the value of partnerships with humanitarian organizations in addressing health challenges.

Director General of Banadir Hospital, Dr. Muna Hussein Hassan, also expressed appreciation for QC's continued support, noting that the partnership has helped strengthen the hospital's capacity and improve services for patients, particularly in areas requiring rapid intervention and specialized treatment.

QC implemented 24 health projects in Somalia last year, benefiting more than 143,000 people at a cost exceeding QAR 9 million. (QNA)