Somalia is characterized by unique geographical features, cultural diversity, and unique socio-economic activities. However, its semi-arid landscape, combined with persistent insecurity and underdeveloped infrastructure, presents significant challenges for communities in accessing essential services. The effects of climate change, including unprecedented droughts and flash floods, have further exacerbated these difficulties, particularly in accessing safe water. With women and girls bearing the burden of fetching water, often trekking long distances to unreliable, often contaminated water sources. This not only leads to the risks of waterborne diseases, and sexual and gender-based violence, but also perpetuates gender inequalities by consuming time that could otherwise be spent on education or economic activities.
Recognizing this urgent need, Nomadic Assistance for Peace and Development (NAPAD) has been at the forefront of improving water access for over 18 years among communities in Somalia and Mandera, Kenya. Initially, NAPAD focused on constructing hand-dug shallow wells, a simple yet lifesaving solution. These wells, excavated manually using basic tools, provided an immediate alternative to accessing water. However, they had limitations reaching only 6–9 meters in depth, were susceptible to high siltation, were vulnerable to drying up during prolonged droughts, susceptible to contamination and flood damage necessitating frequent rehabilitation.
To provide a more sustainable and reliable water supply, NAPAD has since transitioned to drilled shallow wells using portable drilling rigs. These wells reach depths of 17–20 meters, tapping into deeper and more stable underground aquifers. Guided by hydrogeological surveys, they are strategically placed to ensure long-term access to adequate safe water.
Through the SEWOH project, implemented in partnership with Medico International and funded by Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany (BMZ), NAPAD has successfully drilled two shallow wells; one in Busle village, Somalia, and another in Sala village, Mandera County, Kenya. These wells have significantly improved access to adequate water for irrigation activities that enhance community resilience.
The drilled wells have been integrated into a solar-powered water pumping system, supplying irrigation water to small-scale riverine farmers. This initiative enables the farmers to practice climate-smart agriculture, growing a variety of crops such as cowpeas, bananas, sorghum, and Sudan grass. Recent harvests of Sudan grass and sorghum have been sold at local markets, generating much-needed household income and improving their food security.
By shifting from hand-dug wells to drilled wells, NAPAD is not only ensuring communities have a consistent supply of adequate water, but also strengthening community resilience to climate change.