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MOGADISHU, 20 October 2026 Somalis spent an estimated $219 million on medical treatment abroad in 2025, Somali Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman Yasin Mohamud Ibaar said, calling for greater investment in domestic healthcare to reduce the need for patients to seek treatment overseas.
Speaking at the Somali Achievers Awards (BGS26) in Mogadishu, on Tuesday, Ibaar said the amount represented a significant outflow from a country with limited financial resources and highlighted opportunities to expand healthcare services at home.
A display at the event identified India, Türkiye, Ethiopia and Egypt in connection with overseas medical treatment. The display did not specify how much was spent in each country or establish that they accounted for the entire $219 million estimate.
Ibaar urged Somali businesses to increase investment in the health sector, saying that although private companies had already supported healthcare development, more funding was needed to expand services and address gaps that lead patients to travel abroad.
He called for closer cooperation between the government and private sector to improve the availability and quality of healthcare and make services more accessible to the public.
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Ibaar also highlighted Somalia’s reliance on imported medicines and medical supplies, saying greater investment could help establish domestic production and reduce dependence on foreign markets.He said the government should encourage private investment by developing supportive policies and creating conditions that would allow businesses to invest in healthcare.
The chairman praised Hormuud Telecom and the organisers of BGS26 for recognising businesses and individuals who have contributed to Somalia’s development. He also commended healthcare professionals and investors for their efforts to improve medical services and save lives.
The annual BGS awards, organised by Hormuud Telecom, focus on health this year under the theme “Towards a Healthier Somalia – Progress, Challenges & Future Pathways.”
Ibaar said the event could help highlight investment opportunities and recognise people and businesses contributing to the sector.