Water For Life is a sustainable water initiative aimed at addressing the critical water scarcity issues in Somaliland. The project intends to provide access to clean and safe drinking water to communities in need, thereby improving health, sanitation, and overall quality of life. There is a Somali saying, balaayada waa laga hor tagaa, lagama daba tago. Loosely translated it means: you can stop a problem before it happens, not after.

Photo credit: Joe Giddens/PA

Somaliland faces severe water shortages, with many communities lacking access to clean water sources. This leads to numerous health problems, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Existing water sources are often contaminated, leading to waterborne diseases and a perpetual cycle of poverty. Women herders and villagers often travel long distances at a considerable risk to their lives to secure water.

Photo credit: Petterik Wiggers/Oxfam

Our goal is to implement sustainable water solutions by drilling boreholes in strategic locations across Somaliland. These boreholes will serve as reliable sources of clean water for drinking, irrigation, and livestock, benefiting thousands of people in the region.

The sustainability of the project is paramount. In addition to providing clean water, we aim to generate income through water trucking and water kiosks. These ventures will not only fund the ongoing maintenance and operation of the boreholes but also create employment opportunities within the communities.

The funds raised through this campaign will be utilized for various purposes essential to the success of the project:

1. Geological Site Surveys: Conducting thorough surveys to identify optimal locations for borehole drilling.

2. Borehole Drilling and Construction: Excavation and construction of boreholes to access groundwater resources.

3. Pump Installation: Installation of pumps to extract water from the boreholes efficiently.

4. Generator and Solar System: Providing power solutions to ensure continuous operation of the pumps.

5. Facilities for Storing Water: Constructing storage facilities to store water above ground for distribution.

6. Water Kiosks and Water Troughs: Establishing kiosks and troughs for convenient access to water by communities and livestock.

7. Water Trucks: Procuring water trucks for transporting water to remote areas where boreholes are not feasible.

8. Farm Irrigation System: Implementing irrigation systems to support agricultural activities and enhance food security.

Your support for the Water For Life project will make a tangible difference in the lives of people in Somaliland, providing them with a fundamental resource essential for survival and prosperity. Together, let's ensure access to clean water for all. Join us in our mission to bring life-changing solutions to those in need. Donate today and be a part of the journey towards a sustainable future.

Water For Life is organized by a team of dedicated individuals in Canada and Somaliland with expertise in water resource management, sustainable development, and community empowerment. Our mission is to collaborate with the local community to make a meaningful and lasting impact on their lives by addressing their most pressing needs. You can contact the Team Lead, Yasmin, for more information at [email protected].

In November 2024, the team purchased and delivered water tanks to the village of Ilka Cadays, 60km east of Burco, Somaliland.

The tanks were distributed to two schools, a Mother Child Health (MCH) centre, and three individuals who were elderly or visually impaired.

The village Chief accepted the donations.