In Jowhar district, the urgent need for clean, safe water is critical. Constructing protected surface wells in IDP camps and host communities will grant access to clean water for approximately 250 Somali households. Additionally, the establishment of sanitation facilities in an elementary school will benefit 150 students. Responsibility for maintaining the wells and the VIP latrines will be entrusted to the water user associations, ensuring the empowerment and ownership of local communities.
Prolonged droughts and frequent flooding have intensified the acute humanitarian crisis impacting IDPs and host communities. The surge in water-related diseases, combined with contamination due to the absence of protected surface wells, presents significant challenges, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. Moreover, inadequate sanitation facilities in schools lead to the proliferation of unpleasant odors, increased insect infestation, and the spread of diseases among young students.
In order to increase clean and safe water availability for 250 households, the surface wells will be outfitted with a solar-powered pumping system, a raised platform, and a 10-m3 tank. Additionally, the improved toilets in the elementary school will feature a water tank, pump, and will adhere to international standards, including provisions for disabled-accessible bathroom facilities.
The community will acquire valuable management skills and establish mechanisms such as forming management committees for maintenance. This will enable economic independence and sustain the intervention long-term. Each rehabilitated well will have a user association, and a school committee will be designated to maintain the toilet facilities. Additionally, the project will prioritize environmental sustainability by employing climate-resilient technologies and utilizing local resources.
