Clean water for IDPs & host communities in Jowhar

Dear Friends,

Greetings from Jowhar!

In our inaugural report, we are delighted to share with you some updates on our initiative, "Clean Water for IDPs & Host Communities in Jowhar," which aims to address the pressing need for water security in the Middle Shabelle region. The area is currently experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by prolonged droughts and frequent flooding, disproportionately affecting internally displaced persons (IDPs) and local communities in the Jowhar District. This crisis has led to a sharp increase in waterborne diseases and the contamination of surface wells, posing significant challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations. Moreover, rural areas of Jowhar face a sanitation crisis, as evidenced by the lack of water access and proper toilet facilities in almost all schools. This deficiency not only endangers students' health but also undermines their educational participation, especially for girls.

Our project seeks to address these issues through comprehensive interventions, including the rehabilitation of sanitation and water services, alongside community empowerment initiatives to ensure the sustainable management and maintenance of these essential resources.

Surface Wells Construction for IDPs and Host Communities

Rehabilitation and construction are planned for three surface wells across two villages and one IDP camp in Jowhar. In recent months, following the accessibility of roads after El Niño, CEFA conducted a preliminary technical assessment of the sites to establish the feasibility of subsequent rehabilitation works. Key features, challenges, and needs were identified during this phase, informing the planned rehabilitation work, which includes excavation, well protection, installation of a solar-powered pumping system, construction of an elevated platform and tank, and the establishment of water collection points. The works are now ready to commence, and they will enhance water availability for approximately 250 Somali households.

Construction of Sanitation Facilities for Students

Technical feasibility studies, surveys, and detailed designs have been conducted in recent months for one primary school that is in urgent need of sanitation facilities. The works are set to commence soon, providing a total of 2 toilets for girls, 2 for boys, and one accessible toilet for people with disabilities, equipped with a water tank and a pump.

Please continue to support us to help us realize this project and provide 250 Somali families and 150 students with access to clean and safe water!

Warm regards,

Rose Wanyiri