Abstract Background: The Horn of Africa (HA) deals with complex social problems worsened by climate change. Many of these issues have roots in the imperial ideology used in state formation and governance. These challenges necessitate moving away from relying solely on the state and market to solve society's welfare issues. Involving civic organizations (COs) is crucial in understanding and tackling societal problems. Methods: This paper employs historical research methods to synthesize knowledge using primary and secondary data while examining the role of community organizations in public health development and services. Findings: COs have significantly contributed to understanding the root causes of societal problems and have played pivotal roles in social reforms and public health development. They have influenced researchers, policymakers, and shaped discourses, and strived to make politics a form of social medicine. This influence is manifested in their advocacy for policies that address the root causes of societal problems and promote public health, thereby demonstrating the power and influence of these organizations. Conclusions: The prevailing evidence suggests that COs wield considerable influence over researchers and policymakers, molding societal discourse and transforming politics into social medicine. Their advocacy primarily centers on formulating policies that target societal issues' underlying root causes and fostering a robust social policy conducive to public health development. Moreover, COs have effectively provided essential services that the state and the market neglected. Flourishing COs is essential to empower individuals and groups, augmenting their ability to comprehend and effectively tackle prevalent social challenges.

Keywords: Civic Organizations, Public Health, Social Medicine, Horn of Africa