Somalia’s National Health Professionals Council Issues Directive to Private Hospitals Over Foreign Doctors’ Rights

Mogadishu (SONNA) – The National Health Professionals Council (NHPC), operating under Somalia’s Ministry of Health, has issued a stern directive to private hospitals following a surge in complaints from foreign doctors, particularly Sudanese medical professionals working in the country. The complaints reportedly center on unresolved issues related to employment contracts and residency permits. In response, the NHPC has mandated that all private healthcare facilities adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Ensure Legal Residency for Employed Doctors – Private hospitals must take full responsibility for securing and legalizing the residency status of foreign doctors they hire.
2. Honor Employment Contracts – Health facilities must strictly comply with the terms of employment agreements made with foreign medical staff.
3. Legal Consequences for Violations – The NHPC warned that any institution failing to follow these directives will face legal action.

The Council emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of all health professionals to maintain the credibility and quality of Somalia’s healthcare system. This move comes as Somalia seeks to strengthen its medical sector and foster a fair working environment for both local and foreign healthcare workers. The NHPC has urged full cooperation from private hospitals to ensure compliance with the new measures.