In the Banaadir region of Somalia, particularly in Kahada, Daynile, and Garasbaley districts, thousands of residents are now reaping the benefits of improved access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities. A once-daily struggle for survival has been transformed into a foundation for lasting change. 

For years, relentless droughts had drained the region's water sources, forcing residents to embark on long, exhausting treks in search of clean water. Among them was Zahra Ali Warsame, a 31-year-old mother of four, whose days were consumed by the battle to sustain her family.  

“Getting even a drop of water was a battle,” Zahra recalls. The physical toll of dehydration weakened their bodies, left them vulnerable to illness, and threatened the very survival of their community. 

To address these dire conditions, IOM constructed four boreholes through the Nagaad Project — two in Daynile and one each in Kahada and Garasbaley. Alongside this, a 3,000-meter pipeline network was installed to expand water distribution through 80 newly constructed water kiosks. These efforts now provide thousands of residents with reliable access to water. 

Women collecting water at a newly built water point. Photo:© IOM 2024

To ensure sustainability, water user committees were established in the three locations, comprising 75 members from displaced and host communities. These individuals were trained in water system troubleshooting, solar diagnostics, routine maintenance, and emergency repairs, empowering them to manage and maintain critical infrastructure for the long term. 

For Zahra, the impact is nothing short of life changing. Standing beside one of the boreholes, she shared her relief with Abdirahman Muallim Ahmed, a 58-year-old community elder. 

“We will be drinking from here. Now we have water for our families and livestock,” she said. 

Ahmed added: “This water is helping us more than I imagined. These boreholes mean we are thriving, not just surviving.” 

The scene of cattle and goats drinking peacefully at the water points underscores the transformative power of this intervention. The boreholes have become not just a source of water but a hub for connection, where neighbors share stories and hope for a brighter future. “This is not just water—it is life flowing into our village,” Ahmed reflected.

Beyond water access, the Nagaad Project also tackled sanitation challenges. Six hundred gender-sensitive latrines were constructed, benefiting approximately 12,000 individuals. Designed to support 20 families per unit, the latrines ensure privacy and dignity, particularly for women and girls, enhancing comfort and safety for all. 

Hygiene education was a cornerstone of the project. Residents in target populations, including Zahra and Ahmed, eagerly attended the sessions to learn how to protect their families from preventable diseases. 

These life-changing interventions were made possible by the Nagaad Project, funded by the World Bank through the Federal Government of Somalia and implemented by IOM in collaboration with the Banaadir municipality. 

As the sun sets over the thriving villages, Zahra and Ahmed look toward the horizon with gratitude, knowing that clean water and improved sanitation have revitalized their community. For them, this is more than a project — it is a testament to the resilience and strength of a people who now have the tools to build a brighter future. 

SDG 3 - Good Health and Well Being
SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation
SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals