SomReP- supported solar water system paves the way for a community in Doolow to pursue development initiatives

Nestled on the outskirts of Somalia's Doolow district, Dayah village was a poignant example of the hardships that the community here endured. At the heart of these hardships was mainly severe water scarcity.

This persistent challenge led to recurrent displacements of residents, especially during the drought seasons, further setting back any effort and progress the community made in their pursuit for sustainable livelihoods.

Recognizing the urgent need for a sustainable water solution, the Somali Resilience Program (SomReP), in collaboration with COOPI, embarked upon a transformative mission in 2017. Their goal was to establish a pivotal water point within Dayah that would provide access to water for 150 families.

The water system, funded by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is strategically located near the local Dawa River, utilizing solar power to pump and purify water over a distance of two kilometres and ultimately filling a central reservoir.

Harnessing the sun's energy to pump and purify water across a two-kilometer stretch, filling a central reservoir.

The impact of this water source extended far beyond Dayah village. It became an important water source, serving neighbouring villages as well. Its continuous flow serves as a testament to its durability and dependability.

“The establishment of the water point served as an anchor for all our community activities. It has significantly reduced our vulnerability, allowing us to shift our focus from survival to improving our overall livelihoods, which in turn, has strengthened our resilience,”  shared a Dayah water point committee member.

To promote ownership and ensure the sustainability of this essential resource, households contribute a monthly fee of US$2 for maintenance. Five households have taken a significant step by adopting piped tap water systems, further enhancing the community's preparedness and bolstering their resilience. 

Delivering piped water directly to your homestead.

For Dayah's water committee comprising of 11 members, this intervention stands as the bedrock of their community's resilience. To them, resilience signifies the newfound assurance that they may never again have to endure being displaced from their homes during periods of drought like in the past.

The water resource has also paved the way for the community to pursue development initiatives. Building on this momentum, SomReP and COOPI introduced programs for the community to pursue diversified livelihoods, from agricultural practice, and livestock fodder management systems, to community assets rehabilitation and Village Savings and Loans. 

Observed impact:

This project has improved time efficiency as community members, especially women and children, no longer have to spend extensive hours traveling to the river to collect water.

It has contributed to enhancing safety by eliminating the previous risk posed by crocodiles in the river, particularly for women and children, who are traditionally the ones collecting the water.

The project has contributed to improved community health, with a marked reduction in waterborne diseases due to the consistent availability of clean water from the water point.

Dayah serves as a compelling example of our approach to sequencing and layering development interventions. The water point is not just a mere standalone project, it has inspired a cascade of integrated developmental efforts.

Dayah's story is a shining example for other communities, demonstrating that with strategic, interconnected initiatives, resilience can become a reality.

Written by Jerome Galagade, Design, Monitoring and Evaluation Manager for SomReP, based in Somalia.

Installed elevated tank for water storage.