Today, we join the global community in commemorating World Ear and Hearing Care Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the prevention of hearing loss and promoting access to ear and hearing care services for all. Hearing is essential for communication, education, social interaction, and overall well-being. Yet worldwide, more than 1.5 billion people live with some degree of hearing loss, many of which are preventable through early detection, vaccination, safe medical practices, and timely treatment.
In Somalia, hearing loss remains a significant but under-recognized public health concern. There is limited data on the true scale of the problem, but clinical experience shows increasing cases linked to preventable diseases, untreated ear infections, birth complications, accidents, and misuse of medications. The lack of early screening for newborns and children delays identification and intervention, resulting in long-term communication and learning difficulties. Raising awareness among parents, caregivers, teachers, and health professionals is critical to ensuring early detection and proper management.
Children with hearing loss in Somalia face major challenges, including limited access to Somali Sign Language, inclusive education, and specialized learning support. Very few deaf children access formal education, and many deaf youth lack vocational skills and employment opportunities. This situation contributes to social exclusion and economic hardship. Hearing care must therefore be integrated into primary healthcare services, schools, and community programs to ensure equal participation for persons with hearing impairment.
On this important day, I call upon the Ministry of Health, healthcare institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, and communities to prioritize ear and hearing care. We must promote newborn and school hearing screening, strengthen public awareness campaigns, train healthcare providers, and expand inclusive education services. Hearing care is a human right and a key component of universal health coverage. Together, let us commit to prevention, early intervention, and inclusion—ensuring that no one is left behind.
Dr. Abdisalam Hassan Ahmed
Medical Doctor | General Practitioner
Mogadishu, Somalia
