Somalia is grappling with a severe water crisis resulting from consecutive failed rainy seasons. Forecasts indicate below-average rainfall for the upcoming Gu season (April–June 2025), exacerbating an already dire situation. During the 2024 Deyr season (October-November), rains were erratic and poorly distributed, leaving regions such as Galmudug, Hirshabelle, Jubaland, Puntland and South-West with significantly reduced precipitation. Consequently, groundwater levels have plummeted, critically affecting rural communities that rely on shallow wells and seasonal water sources.
Currently, more than three million people are facing acute water shortages, a figure that is expected to rise as the performance of the Gu rains remains uncertain. The anticipated below-average rainfall and rising temperatures are likely to intensify drought conditions, further straining limited water resources. Projections suggest a high likelihood of below-average rainfall in regions such as Bakool, Bay, Gedo, Hiraan, Middle Shabelle, and inland Galgaduud and Mudug. This worsening scenario threatens to exacerbate water scarcity, diminish agricultural productivity and increase pressure on livestock-dependent communities.
Galkacyo South district in Mudug region has been particularly hard-hit by prolonged dry spells and harsh weather conditions, which have severely limited access to safe water for both urban and rural populations. Local authorities have consistently warned that the situation could deteriorate further without timely intervention from stakeholders.
In Buulaley village, which is in Galkacyo South district, residents are experiencing severe water shortages, with nearby boreholes being very far away, 25-30 kilometers. The village depends on traditional rainwater collection systems known as berkads, which are vulnerable to drought and often run dry. This forces residents to rely on costly water trucking from distant sources, underscoring the urgent need for a reliable and sustainable water supply for both domestic use and livestock.
Qalif Ahmed Diireye, a 78-year-old father and resident of Buulaley village, has faced immense challenges due to the prolonged droughts in Mudug region. These harsh conditions have led to a severe lack of sustainable water sources for his family and the entire community.
Our children used to get sick from unsafe water. Since the borehole was installed, their health has improved. They can play without fear of illness. Having clean water also allows us to care for our animals better. They no longer suffer from dehydration, and we can focus on our livelihoods.
Qalif Ahmed
In the past, villagers depended on costly water trucking from distant sources conducted by International Medical Corps, which cost $150 for a truckload of 10 cubic meters. Water trucking was costly and unsustainable. The local berkads have dried up, forcing families like Qalif’s to resort to unsafe drinking water. This situation has had dire consequences for their health, with children suffering from acute waterborne diseases such as diarrhea.
With generous support from the Somalia Humanitarian Fund (SHF), International Medical Corps installed a borehole, which profoundly transformed the lives of Qalif and his family.
“Before the borehole, we spent hours each day searching for water,” said Qalif. “It was exhausting and costly, and we often had to drink unsafe water.”
International Medical Corps secured funding from the SHF for an emergency water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) project. This initiative went from July 15, 2024, to May 14, 2025. It focused on Galkacyo South district, aiming to enhance access to WASH services for vulnerable populations affected by drought and conflict. A key component of the project included drilling and equipping a new borehole for Buulaley village.
International Medical Corps installed a borehole equipped with a submersible pump powered by a hybrid solar system, complemented by a backup generator. Borehole installation included essential infrastructure: a 50 m³ concrete elevated tank, a generator, borehole caretaker rooms, animal troughs and a 500-meter pipeline connection. Additionally, two water kiosks and two latrines were installed to enhance sanitation in the area.
Our team also distributed hygiene kits to 400 households, provided 20 sets of sanitation tools, and conducted community hygiene promotion activities. They established and trained water management committees, ensuring sustainable management of the newly constructed WASH infrastructure beyond the project’s lifecycle.
The results of this initiative have been transformative. Access to safe drinking water has significantly improved for Qalif’s family and the entire Buulaley community, leading to better health outcomes and enhanced hygiene practices. The new borehole and sanitation tools have helped prevent disease outbreaks, while reduced distances for fetching water have allowed families to dedicate more time to productive activities, ultimately improving their livelihoods and overall well-being.
The availability of water for livestock has also strengthened the local economy, supporting vital pastoral livelihoods. The involvement of local stakeholders has fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility, encouraged sustainable management of water resources, and empowered the community.
For Qalif’s family, the impact has been profound. Previously burdened by the financial strain of purchasing water, they now enjoy easy access to safe and clean water for drinking and domestic use. This change has significantly alleviated the burden of water collection, enhanced their daily lives and reducing their financial stress.
“Our children used to get sick from unsafe water,” Qalif explained. “Since the borehole was installed, their health has improved. They can play without fear of illness. Having clean water also allows us to care for our animals better. They no longer suffer from dehydration, and we can focus on our livelihoods.”
“Working in these conditions is always challenging,” explained Sahro Moalim Abdulle, an International Medical Corps WASH Officer. “We faced logistical hurdles and harsh weather while trying to reach communities in need. However, witnessing the relief and joy on the faces of beneficiaries like Qalif keeps us motivated. Our work is vital because access to clean water changes lives—it restores hope and fosters resilience.”
International Medical Corps’ intervention in Buulaley village exemplifies our commitment to providing underserved communities with access to sustainable, safe water and sanitation. By addressing the critical issue of water scarcity, our team ensured easy and affordable access to clean water for the village residents. Through these efforts, we have not only improved the lives of individuals like Qalif but have also contributed to the overall well-being and resilience of the entire community.