Qatar Charity (QC) has launched two major humanitarian initiatives in Somalia, providing life-saving surgeries for children with critical heart conditions and support for individuals with disabilities. Funded by generous donations from Qatar, these projects aim to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable groups in Somalia and enhance their quality of life.
A delegation from Qatar Charity, led by Mr. Abdulaziz Jassim Hejji, Director of the Development Operations Department, visited Somalia to oversee the launch of these initiatives. The event was attended by Somali government officials, including ministers and representatives from various relevant agencies.
Life-Saving Heart Surgeries for Somali Children
Under the ‘Compassionate Hearts’ initiative, Qatar Charity facilitated critical heart surgeries for 30 children at the Somali Sudanese Hospital in Mogadishu. These procedures were performed by a team of dedicated local and international volunteer doctors.
The Somali Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Haji, praised the initiative as a model of humanitarian solidarity. “’Compassionate Hearts’ is not just a medical project but a symbol of humanitarian cooperation that strengthens communities. These complex surgeries were once considered impossible in Somalia, forcing patients to seek treatment abroad or endure their conditions due to a lack of resources. We are grateful to Qatar Charity and all those involved in this project for restoring hope to these families,” he stated.
Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Nairobi, the spokesperson for the surgical team, expressed his joy at the success of the campaign, saying, “The surgeries were more than just medical procedures—they were a message of new life for the children and their families. Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces after surgery is our greatest reward.”
The impact of these surgeries has been profound, significantly improving the children’s health. Families of the beneficiaries also expressed immense gratitude for the initiative. One mother, Samira, shared her emotional experience: “It was a true miracle. I never imagined my daughter would return to her normal life so quickly.”
Providing Mobility for Persons with Disabilities
In addition to the medical initiative, Qatar Charity also launched the first phase of a project to distribute 700 wheelchairs across Somalia. This project aims to enhance mobility and independence for persons with special needs, beginning with the delivery of 70 electric and manual wheelchairs.
The launch event was attended by Hon. Mohamed Osman, State Minister for Family Affairs and Human Rights, along with Mr. Abdulaziz Jassim Hejji from Qatar Charity and Mr. Mohamed Abdali Jama, Chairman of Somalia’s National Disability Agency (NDA).
Speaking at the event, Mr. Abdulaziz Jassim Hejji reaffirmed Qatar Charity’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities. “We are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with special needs and helping them integrate into society,” he announced.
Mr. Mohamed Abdali Jama, Chairman of the NDA, emphasized the importance of the initiative in promoting inclusivity. “This wheelchair distribution is a crucial step toward empowering persons with disabilities in Somalia. By providing mobility assistance, we are enhancing their independence and social participation. We sincerely thank Qatar Charity for this generous support,” he stated.
State Minister Mohamed Osman highlighted the significance of international partnerships in humanitarian efforts. “This initiative reflects the strong collaboration between the Somali government and humanitarian organizations like Qatar Charity. We firmly believe that such partnerships can bring meaningful change to the lives of the most vulnerable,” he said.
These humanitarian projects mark another milestone in Qatar Charity’s efforts to support marginalized communities in Somalia, reaffirming its dedication to improving healthcare and social welfare in the country.