Retinitis Pigmentosa Treatment in Somalia

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a genetic condition causing progressive vision loss that is under-recognised in Somalia due to very limited access to genetic counselling and specialist retina services. Most confirmed diagnoses come through the handful of ophthalmology centres in Mogadishu. Stem Cell Cure India works with Somali patients and families exploring stem cell therapy as a complementary option alongside standard low-vision and ophthalmology support.

Why Somali Patients Consider This Option

Genetic retinal disease diagnosis requires specialist equipment and, ideally, genetic testing — both scarce or unavailable in Somalia. Many Somali RP patients are diagnosed late, after significant night blindness or peripheral vision loss has developed, and consanguineous marriage patterns in some communities can raise the local prevalence of inherited retinal conditions. Families increasingly look to India for specialist retina evaluation and regenerative treatment options not available at home.

Optometrist performing eye exam using phoropter on elderly man in clinic

Meet Your Treatment Team

Dr. Prashant Tyagi

M. Tech/PhD-Biotechnology
(Stem Cell Researcher)

13-14 Years Experience in Regenerative Medicine

Dr. Tyagi leads the regenerative medicine protocol design at Stem Cell Cure India, overseeing stem cell sourcing, lab processing, and treatment planning for patients — including those travelling from Nigeria .

Areas of focus:

Regenerative Medicine Operations Stem Cell Research Patient Guidance Lab Management

Dr. Pallavee

Senior Consultant — Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon MBBS (University of Gauhati), MS Ophthalmology (University of Gauhati)

26+ Years Experience

Dr. Pallavee brings over two decades of clinical ophthalmology experience, supporting the eye-specific evaluation and treatment planning for patients undergoing stem cell therapy for retinal and optic nerve conditions at Stem Cell Cure India

Areas of focus:

Cataract surgery cornea specialist glaucoma care refractive surgery.

Dr. Robin

Consultant Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon

16+ Years MD, DO

Specialist in advanced cataract surgery, refractive surgery, and Corneal Cross-Linking for Keratoconus with extensive clinical experience.

Cataract Surgery Refractive Surgery Keratoconus

Dr. Pawan

Associate Professor | Vitreo-Retina Surgeon

10+ Years ROP Expert

Experienced cataract and vitreo-retina surgeon with expertise in retinal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, and advanced retina procedures.

Retina Surgery Cataract ROP


How Stem Cell Therapy May Help

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are being studied for their potential to support surviving retinal cells and slow further degeneration in some RP patients. Stem cell therapy does not reverse retinal cells that have already been lost, and RP remains a progressive genetic condition; treatment is offered as a complementary option to discuss alongside ongoing low-vision support.

Is This Treatment Right for You?

Suitability depends on the specific condition and its stage. Before travelling, our team reviews:

  • Recent retinal examination and, if available, electroretinogram (ERG) results
  • Genetic testing results, if previously done
  • Current visual field and night vision status
  • Family history of RP or related retinal conditions

Travelling from Somalia — What to Expect

  • Flights: There are no direct flights between Somalia and India. Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa is the most commonly used route (Mogadishu–Addis Ababa–Delhi, approx. 10–14 hours total with one stop); Qatar Airways via Doha and Turkish Airlines via Istanbul are widely used alternatives. Total journey time typically ranges 10–20 hours depending on the routing chosen.
  • Visa: India does not currently have a resident diplomatic mission in Mogadishu. Somali citizens apply for the Indian Medical Visa through the Embassy of India in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) or the High Commission of India in Nairobi (Kenya); periodic consular camps are also held in Mogadishu. Our team assists with the invitation letter, hospital referral documentation, and required paperwork for the application.
  • Cost guidance: Treatment packages are quoted in USD, which is widely used alongside the Somali Shilling (SOS) for larger payments in Somalia; approximate SOS equivalents are available on request.
  • Language: Somalia's official languages are Somali and Arabic. All consultations and medical reports are provided in English, and Somali-speaking interpreter support can be arranged on request.

What Your Visit Includes

  • Remote pre-screening based on retinal examination/ERG reports shared in advance
  • In-person evaluation by our ophthalmology and regenerative medicine team
  • Diagnostic work-up to assess remaining retinal function and suitability
  • Stem cell therapy administered under medical supervision
  • A written follow-up plan your doctor in Somalia can continue monitoring
  • Airport pickup, accommodation assistance, and a dedicated patient coordinator throughout your stay


Frequently Asked Questions

No. RP is a progressive genetic condition with no current cure. Stem cell therapy is explored as a complementary option that may help support remaining retinal function.

It is not always required but can help our team understand disease progression. If you haven't had genetic testing, this can be discussed during your initial review.

A recent retinal examination, ERG results if available, and details of your family history and vision changes over time.

Most patients stay 5 to 10 days, depending on diagnostics and the treatment plan.

Yes. Once treatment is confirmed, we provide the invitation and supporting documents Somali citizens need to apply for a Medical Visa.

What Our Patients Say


Source: These are real, verified Google reviews currently published on stemcellcure.in — pulled from our Google Business Profile (5.0★).

Contact Stem Cell Cure India today to share your medical history and get a personalised opinion on suitability.


Get Quick Enquiry

⚠️ Please verify that you are not a robot.

call icon