Together, we can break the barriers to diabetes care in Somalia — and give children the futures they deserve
The Somali Childhood Diabetes Organisation (SCDO) is a registered non-profit organisation founded in 2025 and based in Mogadishu. SCDO is the first organisation in Somalia dedicated exclusively to supporting children living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D).
In Somalia, a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes is often life-threatening. Many families cannot afford continuous access to insulin, glucose monitoring supplies, or specialised medical care. As a result, children frequently arrive at hospitals in critical condition, including diabetic ketoacidosis and diabetic coma. Although emergency treatment may stabilise them temporarily, many are discharged without long-term support, follow-up care, or reliable access to the insulin they need to survive.
The healthcare system faces major challenges, including limited diabetes specialists, inconsistent insulin availability, and a lack of educational resources for families. Parents are often left overwhelmed and unsure how to manage their child’s condition safely at home.
SCDO was established to help close these critical gaps in care. We provide support to children and families affected by Type 1 Diabetes through: Access to insulin and diabetes monitoring supplies, Diabetes education and family support, Medical follow-up and care coordination, Community awareness and advocacy and Psychological and peer support initiatives
We work closely with doctors, nurses, pharmacists, paramedics, and healthcare institutions to improve early diagnosis, treatment, and long-term diabetes management for children across Somalia. Beyond medical support, we are committed to building compassionate support networks that reduce the isolation many families experience after a diagnosis. We aim to create safe spaces where children and caregivers can receive emotional support, practical guidance, and hope for the future.
SCDO prioritises assistance for financially disadvantaged families and promotes public awareness through community outreach, educational campaigns, seminars, workshops, conferences, and publications focused on childhood diabetes and preventive healthcare.
A Somalia where every child living with diabetes is diagnosed early, treated equitably, and supported to thrive regardless of geography.
To build a sustainable system of care where Somali children with Type 1 Diabetes receive essential treatment and continuous education.
To reduce the impact of Type 1 Diabetes among Somali children by ensuring timely diagnosis and equitable access to life-saving care.
Providing medical assistance, education, awareness, early detection, screening, and healthcare capacity building.
SCDO provides free insulin, blood glucose monitoring supplies, and continuous diabetes care as a basic right, not a privilege.
We ensure regular health check-ups, track glucose levels effectively, and provide necessary follow-ups for every child.
Families are educated on Type 1 Diabetes management. We conduct diet and social counseling sessions during home and center visits.