Launch and Inaugural Meeting of the Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Technical Working Group (TWG)
Date: 23–24 April 2025
Location: Ministry of Health Headquarters, Garowe, Puntland
Event Summary
The Puntland Non-Communicable Disease Alliance (PNCDA) participated in the official launch and inaugural meeting of the Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Technical Working Group (TWG), convened by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with key partners including the World Health Organization (WHO), Population Services International (PSI), and the Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS).
The two-day session was designed to validate the group’s Terms of Reference (ToR), strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration, and align partners under a unified platform to address the increasing burden of NCDs and mental health conditions across Puntland.
Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Abdirizak Hirsi, Director of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), who reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to advancing NCD policy and programming through a coordinated approach.
PNCDA, represented by Mr. Shuayb Ahmed Mohamed, NCD Unit Manager at the Ministry of Health, presented recent NCD data from Puntland. The findings revealed that over 143,000 people had been screened for hypertension and more than 20,000 for diabetes, with substantial treatment gaps remaining. His presentation sparked rich discussions that led to the endorsement of the ToR and the selection of founding TWG members.
Speakers from WHO, PSI, and SRCS shared key insights and evidence from ongoing initiatives, including the Damal Caafimaad Project and the cross-border NCD pilot in Galdogob. Presentations highlighted the successes of medication procurement, integration of WHO self-care guidelines, and use of innovative communication tools such as interactive voice messaging (IVR). However, partners also noted persistent challenges—particularly the shortage of insulin and limited referral capacity for patients needing specialized care.
Key Outcomes and Way Forward
• Validation and endorsement of the NCD TWG Terms of Reference (ToR).
• Establishment of a WhatsApp coordination platform for real-time communication among members.
• Agreement to conduct quarterly technical meetings and form thematic subgroups focused on training, data, and policy.
• Commitment to integrate NCD and mental health indicators into DHIS2.
• Strengthened collaboration between government, NGOs, and academic institutions to build an effective NCD response system.
PNCDA’s Role
• Participated in the founding of the NCD TWG, ensuring inclusion of civil society perspectives.
• Presented data and policy recommendations on strengthening NCD services in Puntland.
• Supported advocacy for NCD integration into the Essential Package of Health Services (EPHS).
• Contributed to multi-partner coordination and follow-up planning for future NCD programming.