Corruption in Somalia: A Threat to Development

The Human Cost of Corruption

Somalia has been struggling with corruption for decades, affecting various sectors of its economy. This article highlights the impact of corruption on the country’s healthcare sector, security forces, and remittances.

Healthcare Sector: A Crisis Unfolding

The collapse of state-run social services in 1991 led to the privatization of healthcare provision in Somalia. However, this has resulted in a range of problems, including:

• Underfunding: In 2016, only $0.8 million was committed to healthcare spending out of a total government budget of $246 million.
• Dire Health Outcomes: The country faces extreme maternal mortality rates and a chronic shortage of operational hospitals or sanitation infrastructure.
• Corruption: Medical staff often demand bribes from patients for services such as assistance during childbirth, while counterfeit, expired, and sub-standard medicines are widely available.

Security Forces: A License to Abuse

Corruption is widespread within the security apparatus in Somalia. This includes:

• Ministries of Defense, Interior, and Internal Security: These institutions employ large numbers of poorly paid officials who frequently come into contact with citizens, creating opportunities for corruption.
• Human Rights Abuses: The security forces have been accused of human rights abuses, including rape and exploitation.

Remittances: A Lifeline to the Economy

Despite the challenges posed by corruption, remittances from Somalis abroad account for a significant portion of the country’s economy. This provides up to 40% of household income, helping to sustain the livelihoods of many individuals.

Conclusion

Corruption in Somalia is a complex and deeply entrenched issue that affects various sectors of its economy. Efforts to combat corruption and improve governance are ongoing, but progress is slow due to the complexity of the issue and the lack of institutional capacity.