Somalia's fragile health system, shaped by decades of conflict, displacement, and recurring climate shocks, continues to limit access to TB diagnosis, treatment, and HIV services — particularly in underserved areas such as Mataban District. HIV-related stigma and low community awareness further increase vulnerability and delay care-seeking behaviour.
Horn International Relief and Development Organization (HIRDO) supports an integrated, community-based TB and HIV awareness response that strengthens early case detection, treatment support, community awareness, and referral systems to improve health outcomes and reduce transmission among vulnerable populations.
TB Case Detection & Treatment
- Community-based TB screening
- Referral for diagnosis & treatment
- Contact tracing support
- DOTS adherence monitoring
- Nutritional support coordination
HIV Awareness & Prevention
- Community awareness sessions
- Stigma reduction campaigns
- Behavior change communication
- IEC material distribution
- Testing referral pathways
Capacity Building
- CHW training programs
- Health worker mentoring
- Reporting system strengthening
- Community outreach development
- Integrated service delivery skills
Coordination & Referrals
- Ministry of Health collaboration
- WHO technical guidance
- WFP nutrition coordination
- Health facility referrals
- Integrated community outreach
Coordination & Referral Systems
- Close collaboration with Somalia's Ministry of Health and local health facilities to ensure effective referral, continuity of care, and timely access to services
- Coordination with WFP for nutritional support to TB patients during treatment
- Technical guidance from WHO strengthening case management, service quality, and integration within community health outreach systems
- Integration with HIRDO's broader health and community outreach activities for maximum reach
Overall Impact
Early identification of TB suspect cases through community-based active screening
Improved treatment completion rates through DOTS support and adherence counselling
Reduced HIV stigma and increased community awareness on prevention and care-seeking
Stronger referral networks linking patients to diagnosis, treatment, and nutritional support
HIRDO's Approach
HIRDO employs a community-based and integrated approach — combining TB and HIV services to maximise reach and impact, while engaging local communities to build trust, reduce stigma, and ensure sustainable health behaviour change.
Inclusive Community-Based Targeting
HIRDO uses participatory, community-based targeting approaches, working with community leaders, elders and local structures to identify and verify the most vulnerable households, with specific attention to age, disability, gender and displacement status.
Anticipatory & Early Action
HIRDO applies anticipatory action frameworks, acting before crises peak to reach communities with cash and NFI support before the worst impacts occur, reducing harm and preserving livelihoods.
Age, Gender & Disability Inclusion
All cash programmes are designed to be accessible and inclusive through disability-friendly support, accessible distribution points and barrier-free assistance mechanisms.
Accountability & Quality Standards
All interventions comply with SPHERE Standards, Core Humanitarian Standards and Cash Working Group guidelines while maintaining strong Accountability to Affected Populations mechanisms.
