The Devastating Impact of Corruption in Somalia

Corruption has become a significant obstacle to development in Somalia, affecting various sectors that are essential to the well-being of its citizens. Here’s an overview of the main areas impacted by corruption and some of the reasons behind this phenomenon.

Healthcare: A Crisis Unfolding

The collapse of state-run social services after 1991 has led to a privatization of healthcare provision, resulting in:

Key Challenges Faced by Somalia’s Healthcare System

• Privatization of healthcare provision
• Limited government budget allocation for healthcare (US$0.8 million out of US$246 million in 2016)
• High maternal mortality rates and chronic shortage of operational hospitals or sanitation infrastructure
• Sale of counterfeit, expired, and sub-standard medicines by unlicensed clinics and pharmacies

Water and Sanitation: A Critical Concern

Corruption has also had a significant impact on Somalia’s water and sanitation sector, resulting in:

Key Challenges Faced by Somalia’s Water and Sanitation System

• Lack of access to safe water facilities and services
• Poor hygiene contributing to high disease rates
• Recent famine caused by drought and civil unrest exacerbating access to food, water, and healthcare

Security Forces: A Haven for Corruption

Corruption is rife within Somalia’s security apparatus, with citizens perceiving the ministries of defense, interior, and internal security as the most corrupt institutions in the country.

Key Factors Contributing to Corruption in Security Forces

• Lack of transparency and accountability
• Poorly paid officials who frequently come into contact with citizens
• Inadequate infrastructure and services
• Opportunity for corrupt players to exploit desperate citizens