Abdifatah Mohamed
Global Health & Health Systems Specialist
Maastricht,LI
Summary
Experienced Global health & health systems specialist with over a decade of impactful leadership in designing and implementing transformative health policies, strategic frameworks, and public health programs. Proven expertise in steering intergovernmental collaboration, resource mobilization, and achieving annual health targets through meticulous planning and execution. Multidisciplinary background in Public Health, Healthcare Policy, and Global Health underscores commitment to evidence-based practices, high-performance team culture, and collaborative problem-solving. Passionate about continuous learning and innovation, excelling in project management, data-driven decision-making, and fostering partnerships to advance global health initiatives. Strategic-thinking individual experienced in turning low-performing organizations into top revenue producers. Offering engaging and pleasant personality with expertise in improving customer relationships.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
5
5
Languages
6
6
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Director of Policy & Planning Department
Federal Ministry of Health, Somalia
Mogadishu, Benadir
10.2021 - 12.2024
- Lead the development, implementation, and monitoring of national health policies, programs, and projects to achieve the Ministry’s strategic objectives
- Provide a framework for developing national health policies, plans, and strategies, ensuring alignment with national development plans and universal health coverage (UHC) goals
- Coordinate the development and approval of national health sector plans and budgets
- Regularly review and evaluate the effectiveness of national health policies, strategies, regulations, and guidelines, identifying areas for improvement
- Schedule periodic updates of health policies, strategies, and plans in collaboration with stakeholders
- Develop and implement performance assessment tools to align with national health system goals and global targets
- Coordinate with donors, international organizations, UN agencies, and NGOs for resource mobilization and the implementation of health initiatives
- Build and maintain thematic partnerships with relevant institutions, the Social Pillar Office of the Prime Minister, and social sector ministries
- Facilitate intergovernmental coordination with the Federal Government and Federal Member States
- Oversee the monitoring and evaluation of health sector performance and ensure evidence-based policymaking
- Develop, review, and update health information systems (HIS) tools and databases for effective policy and planning
- Ensure timely collection, analysis, dissemination, and use of data for strategic decision-making
- Lead the design and implementation of health projects aimed at improving primary healthcare in Somalia
- Monitor the implementation of the UHC-2030 roadmap and the National Essential Package of Health Services (EPHS-2020)
- Provide technical leadership to the department, ensuring efficient functioning of all units and delivery of annual targets
- Manage and evaluate staff performance, promote accountability, and foster a culture of excellence and collaboration
- Develop ministerial key indicators to monitor performance and results
- Coordinate the preparation of annual performance and financial reports for the Ministry of Health
- Lead efforts to secure funding from domestic and international sources, ensuring effective management of resources
- Monitor budget execution, mitigate risks, and contribute to the preparation of periodic financial reports
- Represent the Ministry at national, regional, and international conferences, advocating for its goals and priorities
- Provide standard requirements for research and surveys to inform policy and plans
- Develop and update national regulatory frameworks to support the health sector
- Contribute to the development and implementation of the Ministry’s business continuity plan
- Identify and mitigate risks early to ensure effective departmental operations
- Maintain a positive work environment that promotes collaboration, information sharing, and motivation to attract and retain talent
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
- Improved project efficiency with strategic planning, resource allocation, and time management practices.
- Implemented innovative solutions to solve complex problems, resulting in increased productivity and streamlined operations.
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.
- Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or business operations.
- Evaluated employee performance objectively using established metrics, leading to fair compensation adjustments based on meritocracy principles.
- Spearheaded successful product launches that resulted in increased brand visibility and customer acquisition.
- Increased company revenue by streamlining processes and implementing cost-saving measures.
- Negotiated favorable contracts with vendors for reduced costs and improved service quality.
- Improved team morale and productivity by implementing comprehensive professional development program.
- Cultivated high-performance executive team, selecting and mentoring candidates for key leadership roles.
- Secured lucrative partnerships to expand market reach, negotiating favorable terms.
- Transformed organizational culture to embrace continuous improvement, leading by example and mentoring teams.
Senior Lecturer
Somali National University
09.2020 - 01.2023
- Facilitated the 'Health Systems and Globalization' course at the School of Public Health and Research (SNU), emphasizing key concepts such as healthcare delivery frameworks, global health trends, and policy implications
- Enhanced the capacity and skills of postgraduate students by designing and delivering tailored training programs, workshops, and hands-on learning opportunities to prepare them for leadership roles in public health and healthcare systems
- Led and coordinated healthcare management training initiatives, ensuring alignment with contemporary best practices and the evolving needs of the healthcare industry, while fostering collaboration among academic and professional stakeholders
- Provided strategic academic counsel to the director and the school’s leadership team, contributing to the development of curriculum frameworks, research priorities, and institutional policies to achieve the school’s vision and mission
- Delivered higher-level undergraduate and graduate courses via classroom, online and hybrid methodologies to satisfy course curricula and meet student needs.
- Contributed to program accreditation efforts by compiling documentation and participating in site visits with external evaluators.
- Revised curriculum to align with industry trends, ensuring students were prepared for the job market.
- Designed course materials such as syllabi, lecture notes, assignments aligned with both programmatic outcomes as well as course-specific objectives.
- Engaged in continuous professional development through attending workshops, webinars, and conferences to stay current with industry trends and best practices in higher education.
- Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating real-life examples and case studies into lectures.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary courses, fostering a comprehensive learning experience.
Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist
Noble Health Consultancy
09.2020 - 12.2021
- Designed, coordinated & implemented monitoring and evaluation, research, and learning frameworks of the Projects run by NOHEC in Somalia
- Collected analyzed and validated project monitoring data
- Helped in the revision of the project log frame matrix, particularly in the areas of performance indicators and their measurement of all projects
- Assisted in the development and/or finalization of the project Work Plan and keep it updated in accordance with projects activities and time frames as relevant
- Developed the overall framework, for project M&E, for example mid-term project review, impact assessment, final evaluation, develop project Performance Monitoring Plan with relevant data collection systems
- Reviewed the quality of existing data in the project subject areas, the methods of collecting it, and the degree to which it will provide good baseline statistics for impact evaluation
- Developed baseline data for each project component and for all project indicators
- With collaborating partners, review their existing approaches and management information systems and agree on any required changes, support, and resources
- Developed plans for project-related capacity-building on M&E and for any computer-based support that may be required
- Organized and undertook training with collaboration of partners on M&E as required
- Advised to the supervisor on improving project performance using M&E findings
- Produced reports on M&E findings and prepare presentations based on M&E data as required
- Continuously monitored implementation of protection activities and report on progress, challenges and recommend solutions
- Managed stakeholder relationships through effective communication and collaboration, fostering a positive working environment.
- Contributed to proposal development efforts by defining appropriate indicators that align with project objectives and funder expectations.
- Supported the design of surveys, assessments, and other data collection tools tailored to specific programmatic needs.
- Ensured timely submission of high-quality donor reports by closely collaborating with program teams during the report-writing process.
- Incorporated innovative data visualization techniques in the presentation of complex programmatic information, facilitating stakeholder understanding.
- Conducted site visits to ensure compliance with donor requirements and verify the accuracy of reported results.
- Developed tailored training materials and conducted workshops to build capacity among project staff in monitoring and evaluation techniques.
- Streamlined data collection processes for accurate analysis and informed decisionmaking.
- Leveraged digital monitoring and evaluation solutions to optimize data management processes, improving overall reporting accuracy and timeliness.
- Enhanced program effectiveness by designing and implementing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
- Facilitated cross-functional team collaboration through regular meetings and information sharing on monitoring and evaluation activities.
- Implemented efficient feedback mechanisms enabling prompt detection, documentation, reporting of issues affecting project outcomes.
- Prepared concise yet comprehensive progress reports for senior management, highlighting key achievements and challenges faced by programs.
- Promoted a culture of learning within the organization by disseminating findings from evaluations to relevant stakeholders for continuous improvement purposes.
- Conducted comprehensive data analysis to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement in program performance.
National Cold Chain & Logistics Consultant
UNICEF
04.2021 - 11.2021
- Provided technical support for the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of National Deployment and Vaccination Plan (NDVP) at state level in collaboration with other partners
- Assessed dry storage and cold chain capacity at all levels with regards to the COVID-19 vaccine characteristics and fill the identified supply and logistics gaps
- Estimated the target populations that will be prioritized for access to vaccines, and forecasting the needs for COVID-19 vaccine, safe injections equipment, as well as PPE
- Mapped service points identified and estimated number of health workers and planned the supply of PPE to workers
- Provided technical support to the MOHs to chair and facilitated Logistic Working Group (LWG) and its sub-committees
- Provided all necessary data and support for the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) or guidelines for collection and disposal of medical waste in line with WHO recommendations
- Provided technical support for updating vaccine stock management tools and SOPs with regards to the COVID-19 vaccines characteristics in line with WHO recommendations and facilitated their effective implementation with MOHs
- Supported MOHs to develop, implement and monitor activities in support of effective reverse logistics and medical waste management, as part of the plans
- Produced monthly consultancy reports reporting on progress of the above
- Supervised all the regional health consultants and make sure timely submission of weekly and monthly reports
- Develop and implement performance tracking measures to continuously monitor allocation of resources and progress against the National Health Sector Strategic Plan III
- Lead and coordinate effective system-wide strategic and business-planning processes and results reporting
- Commission data analysis to provide quarterly and annual reports summarizing key findings and insights, using visualization tools to highlight progress against plans and objectives, to inform decision making during the SMT meetings
- Lead, motivate and mentor the departmental team, monitoring performance, fostering ongoing professional development and ensure that all the staff have the knowledge and skills to achieve their work objectives in alignment with Ministry values
- Formulate implementable national health initiatives, programmes, and workplans from different departmental functions, and aligned to country’s health priorities and goals
- Develop evidence-based and cost-effective implementation plans for the attainment of key expected results from the National Health Sector Strategic Plan III
- Develop systems, processes, standards, and structure to guide the Federal Ministry of Health’s policies programme planning, implementation of its activities
- Establish an evidence-based mechanism to link the results attained by different departmental initiatives to the resources allocated
- Lead quartile reviews of policies, strategies, and programmes to ensure they respond to key requirements of the Ministry by determining KPIs to evaluate the operational performance outcomes and program progress to contribute to the achievement of the National Health Sector Strategic Plan III
- Develop and document on the best practices for planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the programmes in way that is result oriented
- Lead and facilitate on the linkage between other departments, programs and supporting the functions of the Ministry for effective implementation of the National Health Sector Strategic Plan III
- Create and main high-performance culture which is based on collaboration and mutual respect
Family Planning Research Consultant
IRC
10.2020 - 12.2020
- Planned and executed detailed field visits to project implementation areas to carry out sampling, data collection, and observational assessments, ensuring a robust understanding of ground-level realities
- Engaged with sampled project stakeholders through structured and semi-structured household interviews to gather qualitative and quantitative insights on project outcomes and impacts
- Organized and moderated focus group discussions and one-on-one interviews with field staff, primary beneficiaries, and key stakeholders to capture diverse perspectives and ensure inclusive data collection
- Conducted strategic interviews and dialogues with government agencies, local authorities, and other relevant stakeholders to align project goals with institutional priorities and policy frameworks
- Designed and facilitated feedback sessions with the IRC Mogadishu team, field staff, and other key informants to validate findings, reflect on challenges, and co-create actionable recommendations for project improvement
- Performed detailed field observations to corroborate and triangulate data from various sources, ensuring the reliability and credibility of the collected information
- Utilized advanced data analysis techniques to synthesize qualitative and quantitative findings, conducting rigorous validation exercises to ensure accuracy and integrity
- Authored detailed reports summarizing findings, insights, and actionable recommendations, and delivered debriefing sessions to the project team and WISH management teams to facilitate evidence-based decision-making and project optimization
Office Volunteer
MSF Norway
10.2013 - 04.2014
- Worked closely with the donor database team to ensure accurate and up-to-date records of donors
- Assisted in data entry, reporting, and analysis to support donor engagement strategies
- Identified and resolved inconsistencies in the database to improve efficiency and accuracy
- Participated in comprehensive training sessions provided to all international staff preparing for their first field mission
- Provided insights and guidance on MSF's field operations to ensure new staff members understand the complexities and challenges of fieldwork
- Facilitated discussions and Q&A sessions to address specific concerns of outgoing international staff
- Delivered presentations to outgoing international staff, offering a detailed overview of MSF’s operations, values, and real-world challenges encountered in the field
- Shared practical examples and case studies to enhance staff readiness and situational awareness
- Provided technical advice and recommendations to MSF teams managing on-going emergency response activities
- Collaborated with various departments to align emergency efforts with organizational standards and goals
- Contributed to strategy development for immediate and long-term emergency interventions
- Assisted the office in planning and executing fundraising campaigns within Norway to support MSF’s global initiatives
- Engaged with donors and the general public to promote awareness of MSF’s mission and encourage contributions
- Supported logistical and administrative aspects of fundraising events, such as donor meetings, community events, or online campaigns
- Provided administrative and operational support to various teams within the Oslo office as needed
- Acted as a liaison between field and office teams, ensuring effective communication and information sharing
Somali Flying Lab Technician Supervisor
MSF Holland
Mogadishu
01.2006 - 09.2013
- Ensured that all TB samples are prepared and tested in accordance with MSF protocols and international best practices
- Maintained and oversaw proper usage of GeneXpert machines, ensuring regularly calibration, serviced, and used correctly
- Supervised timely shipment of MDR-TB samples to designated laboratories, such as Antwerp, ensuring proper handling and documentation
- Implemented and monitored quality control measures to ensure reliability and accuracy of laboratory results
- Provided all laboratory support needed during public health emergencies specially during cholera outbreaks
- Organized regular team meetings to encourage information sharing, collaboration, and problem-solving
- Actively participated in supervisors' meetings, sharing updates, challenges, and best practices with other leaders in the organization
- Developed, implemented, and monitored improvement plans for the laboratory department, ensuring progress is consistently assessed and updated
- Maintained meticulous records of laboratory operations, including inventory management, staff performance evaluations, and incident reports
- Reported regularly to senior management on laboratory activities, highlighting successes, challenges, and areas requiring additional resources or attention
- Proactively managed the department's resource needs, including procuring supplies, managing budgets, and minimizing operational disruptions
- Fostered a culture of collaboration with colleagues across departments to ensure alignment with organizational goals
- Actively participated in interdepartmental meetings, sharing insights to improve operational efficiency and quality of care
- Ensured strict adherence to all health and safety regulations related to laboratory operations
- Monitored compliance of all supervised staff with health and safety policies, providing corrective guidance when necessary
- Regularly reviewed job descriptions, ensuring alignment with organizational needs and roles
- Kept organizational chart up to date, ensuring clarity in reporting lines and responsibilities
- Maintained accurate attendance records and monitor adherence to working hours and schedules
- Provided additional support to team during periods of high workload or unexpected staff absences
- Identified skill gaps and training needs within team and develop tailored training programs to address these gaps
- Organized ongoing professional development sessions in alignment with MSF's general training framework
- Delivered hands-on training for new staff on use and maintenance of laboratory equipment, particularly GeneXpert machine
- Acted as a key liaison between laboratory team and external stakeholders, including partner organizations and regulatory bodies, ensuring effective communication and compliance
- Promoted adherence to MSF's core principles and values, including neutrality, impartiality, and accountability in all aspects of laboratory operations
Education
Master of Science - Healthcare Policy Innovation & Management
Maastricht University
Maastricht 09.2017 - 8 2019
Master of Science - Global Health
Maastricht University
Maastricht 09.2018 - 8 2019
Bachelor of Science - Public Health
Maastricht University
Maastricht 09.2014 - 07.2017
Skills
Problem-solving
Accomplishments
- Strategic Health Planning and Policy Development
- Successfully led the development of Somalia's National Transformation Plan (2025-2029) for the health sector.
- Spearheaded the design and implementation of the Essential Package of Health Services (EPHS) - 2020.
- Pioneered the creation of the Somalia UHC-Roadmap 2030.
- Directed the development of the Somalia Health Sector Strategic Plan III.
- Health System Strengthening Initiatives
- Oversaw the first Harmonized Health Facility Assessment (2023).
- Established and coordinated thematic Technical Working Groups (TWGs).
- Developed Somalia's first National Investment Plan for Health Emergency Prevention, preparedness and Response (2024).
- Strengthened health information management systems by introducing DHIS2.
- Leadership in Health Projects and Programs, Successfully led the design, implementation, and oversight of major health projects: Damal Caafimaad Project, Better Lives Project, CHASP, Somali Emergency COVID-19 Response Projects.
- Institutional Development and Coordination
- Established two-level health sector coordination mechanisms.
- Introduced and institutionalized the first Health Financing Unit under the Ministry of Health.
- Created the first Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) Unit under the Ministry of Health.
- Human Resource Development and Capacity Building
- Conducted a comprehensive review of Somalia's HRH (Human Resources for Health) landscape.
- Addressed gaps and strategized for future workforce needs.
- Innovative Health Financing and Strategic Investments
- Led the development of a Health Information Strategy.
- Championed initiatives to optimize health financing mechanisms.
- Promoted public-private partnerships to support long-term health system resilience.
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Work Preference
Work Type
Full TimeContract WorkWork Location
On-SiteRemoteHybridImportant To Me
Work-life balanceHealthcare benefitsPersonal development programsLanguages
English
Advanced (C1)
Arabic
Upper intermediate (B2)
somali
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Dutch
Elementary (A2)
Kiswahili
Intermediate (B1)
Interests
Global Health
Public Health emergency
Health policy advisor
Public health
Health project manager
Health coordinator
Health manager
Timeline
Director of Policy & Planning Department
Federal Ministry of Health, Somalia
10.2021 - 12.2024
National Cold Chain & Logistics Consultant
UNICEF
04.2021 - 11.2021
Family Planning Research Consultant
IRC
10.2020 - 12.2020
Senior Lecturer
Somali National University
09.2020 - 01.2023
Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist
Noble Health Consultancy
09.2020 - 12.2021
Master of Science - Global Health
Maastricht University
09.2018 - 8 2019
Master of Science - Healthcare Policy Innovation & Management
Maastricht University
09.2017 - 8 2019
Bachelor of Science - Public Health
Maastricht University
09.2014 - 07.2017
Office Volunteer
MSF Norway
10.2013 - 04.2014
Somali Flying Lab Technician Supervisor
MSF Holland
01.2006 - 09.2013
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