Somaliland Bans Import and Sale of RUTF and RUSF Supplements to Curb Unauthorized Use

A health official in Hargeisa announces the nationwide ban on private imports and sales of RUTF and RUSF supplements to protect public health.

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Hargeisa, Somaliland – The Ministry of Health has announced a sweeping ban on the importation and commercial sale of therapeutic food supplements known as Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) and Ready-to-Use Supplementary Food (RUSF).

The ministry emphasized that these specialized nutritional products are intended solely for the treatment of severe malnutrition and must be administered under strict medical supervision. According to the official statement, only United Nations agencies such as UNICEF and the World Food Programme (WFP) are authorized to bring these products into the country and distribute them through approved health programs.

Officials noted a growing trend of individuals misusing these supplements, with some people reportedly consuming them without medical advice in an effort to rapidly gain weight or achieve an unnaturally high body mass. The government warned that unsupervised use poses serious health risks and undermines efforts to combat malnutrition among vulnerable populations, particularly children.

Health authorities urged the public to seek proper nutritional counseling and to avoid purchasing or consuming RUTF or RUSF outside of regulated health programs. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that life-saving therapeutic foods reach only those in genuine need.

Somaliland Ministry of Health Bans Import and Sale of RUTF and RUSF Supplements

Official Press Release

Hargeisa, Somaliland — September 21, 2025

Ministry of Health Development | Republic of Somaliland