The challenge: Somaliland is a water-scarce country with no perennial rivers flowing in it. This makes groundwater and surface water the main sources for most people in Somaliland. Recurring droughts coupled with climate change have created severe water shortage that has not only affected humans but also contributed to poor livestock production which is the economic mainstay of the country. Developing rainwater harvesting infrastructure, managing underground water storage, and making water accessible to the largest number are the main challenges facing the nation.
Our response: In Somaliland, Pharo Foundation has constructed quality and sustainable rainwater harvesting infrastructure such as Hafir dams, subsurface dams, and berkads that will contribute to greater resilience to extended droughts. The rehabilitated Illinta earth dam is an example of the successful implementation of rainwater harvesting infrastructure where the community benefited from increased access to sufficient water throughout the year, particularly during the dry season.
The programme involves the rehabilitation of existing earth dams and construction of additional dams in underserved areas. Pharo Foundation's objective is to be a catalyst and to mitigate the effects of drought and the drastic water shortage in rural and urban areas in the country, through the careful and selective exploitation of surface water. We envision a future in which everyone has access to safe and affordable water resources that are professionally managed and sustainable.