Officials say the long-awaited legislation is critical to strengthening healthcare governance as lawmakers assume responsibility from a joint technical committee.
HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn Post) A technical committee comprising members of the Social Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives and officials from the Ministry of Health Development has formally handed over the draft National Health Law to the newly constituted parliamentary committee, officials said.
The handover was led by Samsam Mohamed Salah, the former deputy minister of health development who now serves as deputy minister of environment and climate change. The process marks a key transition in Somaliland’s legislative efforts to finalize a comprehensive legal framework for the health sector.
The ceremony, attended by members of the newly appointed Social Affairs Committee, included remarks outlining the progress and significance of the proposed legislation, which has been under development through collaboration between lawmakers and health ministry officials.
Lawmaker Ahmed Khalif Jama Salah said the new committee had officially assumed responsibility for the bill, crediting the previous committee and ministry leadership for advancing the draft.
“We are formally taking over the health law that was jointly developed by the previous Social Affairs Committee and the former deputy minister of health. This law would not have been possible without your substantial contribution,” he said, inviting Salah to attend the parliamentary session when the bill is tabled.
Salah, speaking at the event, described the handover as a milestone and urged lawmakers to pass the legislation without delay.
“Thanks to God, we have brought the law to this stage. I call on all 82 members of parliament to approve it effectively, as the nation is in urgent need of this law,” she said.
National Health Law is expected to provide a regulatory framework for healthcare delivery, governance and standards across Somaliland, as authorities seek to strengthen public health systems and improve service quality nationwide.
Prepared by:
Horn Post staff
