Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has expressed concern over the escalating clashes in Baidoa, the capital of the Bay region.
MSFโs Representative for Somalia, Dr. Elshafie Mohammed, stated that the organization is deeply concerned about the impact the rising violence in Baidoa is having on civilians and their access to essential medical services.
“MSF urgently calls on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians, patients, medical staff, and health facilities, and to ensure that people in need of medical care can reach hospitals safely and without hindrance,” said the MSF Representative for Somalia.
In a press release, the organization noted that the heavy fighting that took place in the city today marks the third such incident in Baidoa and its surrounding areas since August 17th. “It was reported that a health facility sustained heavy damage and a health worker was killed. An ambulance was looted, and attacks on civilian homes were also reported. Two health workers affiliated with MSF teams were robbed of their belongings, and one of them was injured,” the press release stated.
Dr. Elshafie Mohammed, MSF Representative for Somalia, said in the statement: “This is the third time in six weeks that fighting has erupted in the city of Baidoa, resulting in dire consequences for civilians. It is unacceptable for civilians and healthcare services to be subjected to violence. The wounded need urgent medical care, yet many cannot reach the hospital. Without timely treatment, many could die from blood loss.”
Dr. Elshafie Mohammed once again called on the warring parties, stating, “We call on all sides to protect civilians and public infrastructure, and to ensure that patients can safely reach health facilities without fear, delay, or obstruction.”
Teams working with the Ministry of Health at the Bay Regional Hospitalโalso known as the Baidoa General Hospitalโreceived 69 wounded people this Monday and recorded the deaths of three civilians, according to MSF.
MSF stated that roads in Baidoa were blocked due to the fighting, severely restricting access to healthcare. The organization added that only a small number of the injured were able to reach the Baidoa General Hospital.
