This scandal operates through gangs based in Kenya, who have turned the desperation of Somali patients into a profitable venture. The complexity and depth of this corruption have roots that extend into an underground network that flourished, using the facilities and the cover of the Indian embassy in Kenya to conduct their unlawful business.

The operation mirrors a similar scandal that previously rocked the Somali embassy in Ethiopia, where officials were found charging up to $700 for medical visas, significantly above the legal fee. The public outcry over this incident led to the relocation of visa processing services to Kenya. However, instead of serving as a cautionary tale, the relocation only shifted the epicenter of corruption from one site to another.

This exploitation has had dire consequences. It is estimated that 2-4 people die each week as they scramble to unnecssary prolong wait and to gather the funds needed for the inflated visa fees. This exploitation not only underscores a deep-seated corruption but also highlights the tragic impact on the lives of those who are merely seeking a chance for better health and survival.

The involvement of the Indian and Kenyan nationals points to a worrying trend of international complicity in such schemes. It raises questions about the oversight mechanisms in place and the ease with which embassy staff can manipulate systems meant to aid the ailing.

It remains uncertain if the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Somalia is aware of the depth and breadth of this scandal. Their silence or potential ignorance raises serious concerns about the oversight and governance within Somali’s foreign diplomatic missions. Similar incidents in the past have led to public outrage but little in the way of concrete actions or systemic reform.

The human cost of this corruption is immense. Families are not only losing loved ones but are also being financially crippled in their pursuit of life-saving medical treatments. The inflated visa fees represent a significant barrier to healthcare access, effectively putting a price tag on life itself.

The Somali government, along with the international community, is urged to take immediate and decisive action. Investigating these allegations thoroughly and bringing those responsible to justice is crucial. The integrity of diplomatic missions must be restored, and mechanisms must be put in place to ensure such exploitative practices are eradicated.

Furthermore, there needs to be an international dialogue about corruption and exploitation in visa processing, especially in cases involving medical emergencies. Ensuring transparency and accountability in these processes is essential to restore faith in the system and prevent future exploitation.

The exploitation of Somalia’s sick and vulnerable for profit represents a profound moral failing that echoes across borders. It is not only a violation of trust but a stark illustration of the depths of human greed. This scandal serves as a call to action for all stakeholders involved to reaffirm their commitment to justice and ethical conduct in the face of such egregious abuses of power.

Every year, Somalia pours $100-125 million into India's medical visitor program. While this may seem like a gesture of hope for urgent medical treatments, the reality is far more tragic. Instead of receiving the care they desperately need, Somali people are treated like criminals in their search for healthcare.

-Horn Observer -