Founder & CEO – Somali Maternal and Fistula Organization (SOMAFCO)
Obstetric Fistula Surgeon | Former National Obstetric Fistula Coordinator – Somalia
OB/GYN Fistula Surgeon – East Africa University (EAU) Hospital, Bosaso
Dr. Abdirisak Hassan Artan is one of Somalia’s leading obstetric fistula surgeons and a dedicated advocate for maternal health. Since 2015, he has performed more than 5,000 obstetric fistula repair surgeries, restoring dignity, health, and hope to thousands of women across the country.
He is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SOMAFCO and previously served as the National Obstetric Fistula Coordinator under the Ministry of Health, where he played a key role in strengthening national fistula prevention, treatment, and referral systems.
Dr. Artan is a former OB/GYN and Senior Fistula Surgeon at Keysaney Hospital in Mogadishu, where he managed complex cases and contributed to building national surgical capacity. Over the years, he has trained and mentored many Somali doctors in fistula surgery and comprehensive emergency obstetric care.
He completed advanced FIGO Fellowship training in obstetric fistula surgery at internationally recognized centers, including Hamlin Fistula Hospital and Gynocare Women’s & Fistula Hospital, gaining specialized expertise in complex fistula repair.
Dr. Artan is currently permanently based in Bosaso at East Africa University (EAU) Hospital, where he leads the Fistula Referral Center, providing specialized surgical care and coordinating national referrals.
In addition, he conducts outreach and visiting surgical services at:
• Kalkaal Hospital – Mogadishu
• Daryeel Hospital – Kismayo
• Gutale Hospital – Qardho
• GMC Hospital – Galkayo (Visiting Surgeon)
Dr. Artan holds an MBBS, a Master of Health Management (Italy), and a Master of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Through SOMAFCO, he leads free fistula repair campaigns, prevention programs, professional training initiatives, and maternal health system strengthening efforts across Somalia.
His mission is to eliminate obstetric fistula in Somalia and ensure safe motherhood, dignity, and access to quality surgical care for every woman.
