Somalia has launched its first unified national registry of health facilities, marking a major step towards stronger health planning and decision-making.
The Master Health Facility List brings together standardized information on 1,455 facilities nationwide in one trusted national reference.
The initiative involves the Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Member States, health partners and the World Health Organization.
Officials said the registry will improve coordination, resource allocation and understanding of gaps in health-service availability across Somalia.
Previously, facility information was scattered across different systems, making it difficult for authorities and partners to work from consistent data.
The new registry provides details on facility locations, available services and operational status, creating a clearer picture of healthcare access.
WHO said reliable facility data can help direct resources towards communities facing the greatest barriers to essential health services.
The registry is also expected to strengthen immunization and polio eradication efforts by improving vaccination planning and identifying underserved communities.
Standardized facility information can help health authorities coordinate vaccination teams, expand outreach and connect services with specific communities and facilities.
The system could also support decisions on infrastructure, health-worker deployment and essential services as Somalia faces continuing humanitarian pressures.
Conflict, displacement and climate-related shocks have left some communities struggling to reach healthcare, increasing the value of accurate service mapping.
Authorities said maintaining the registry through regular updates will remain essential as facilities open, close or change their services.
The Health Ministry, supported by WHO and health partners, will continue integrating the registry into Somalia’s wider health information system.
The initiative offers a shared foundation for a more coordinated, data-driven and resilient health system, supporting efforts towards universal health coverage.