Water scarcity: a daily struggle for somali communities
In Somalia, access to clean water remains a challenge, especially in regions like Dhobley and Kismayo. Prolonged droughts, seasonal flooding, and poor infrastructure leave many without reliable water sources. According to AVSI’s 2023 Somalia Baseline Report, 73% of people in Lower Juba have access to clean water - yet the type of water sources varies widely. Piped water accounts for only 19%, while many still rely on dug wells (19%), surface water (12%), and boreholes (8%). The report highlights that 73% have access to latrines, though public facilities remain more common than private ones.
The impact in the past years
Since 2017, AVSI has reached over 150,000 people in Lower Juba, improving water access, sanitation, and hygiene awareness. Key achievements include:
- 36,000 people gained access to clean water through wells, water pans, and berkads.
- 3 water pumps installed.
- 330 pit latrines constructed.
- 2,000 hygiene kits distributed.
- 100,000 people reached through hygiene awareness radio campaigns.
This work has driven major improvements: access to safe water jumped from 51.8% to 77.5%, waste management improved from 43% to 80%, and latrine use increased from 35% to 80%.
A winning strategy: infrastructure, education, and community engagement
AVSI’s success lies in its three-pronged approach:
- Building infrastructure: constructing wells, pumps, and latrines ensures immediate access to clean water and sanitation.
- Educating communities: radio campaigns and hygiene sessions empower people with knowledge to maintain healthier habits.
- Engaging locals: involving community members in waste management, water maintenance, and hygiene efforts fosters long-term ownership and sustainability.
Meet Ali, who provides water for his community
Ali, a 32-year-old father of five from Jilib, once spent hours daily fetching water — time that kept him from earning a stable income. Through AVSI’s initiative supporting displaced families, Ali received a donkey and cart. Now, he transports larger quantities of water for his family and neighbors, reducing physical strain and gaining extra income. “Before, I barely had time to rest. Now, I make a living and spend more time with my family,” Ali says.
His story embodies the life-changing impact clean water access brings to Somali communities.
Building for the future: the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation-funded hydraulic system
AVSI’s work doesn’t stop here. A new Italian Agency for Development Cooperation-funded project aims to build a hydraulic water system in Dhobley’s Wadajir settlement, providing a stable, reliable water source. This system will cut dependence on unsafe sources, improving community health and reducing water collection times. To ensure sustainability, AVSI Foundation partners with WASDA, a local organization specializing in WASH infrastructure, and plans to hand over system management to Dhobley’s Municipal Authority - ensuring long-term access for generations to come.
World Water Day 2025
World Water Day reminds us that clean water is a human right — and a cornerstone for resilient, thriving communities. In Somalia, where water scarcity remains a daily battle, AVSI’s efforts stand as a testament to what’s possible when infrastructure, education, and community engagement come together. This year, let’s celebrate progress and renew our commitment to ensuring clean water for all.