The Holhol Dam in Somaliland has been rehabilitated under the World Bank-supported Somalia Water for Rural Resilience Project, locally known as Barwaaqo, to provide clean water to over 6,000 people and support thousands of livestock. The upgraded dam now holds up to 70,000 cubic meters of water and serves surrounding villages, including Asha-ado, Abuqeys, and Sogsogley. In addition, five water points have been rehabilitated and three new ones constructed, giving 68,348 people access to basic water services, nearly half of the project’s target population.
Holhol village, home to nearly 1,000 households, depends on farming and herding for survival. Water scarcity has historically shaped livelihoods, with residents walking long distances to fetch water and enduring significant losses of livestock and crops during droughts and floods in 2023–2024. Rehabilitation of the dam has restored its original capacity, allowing it to fill during rainy seasons and provide a reliable water source during dry periods. Local residents emphasize that access to water is crucial for both their families and livestock.
The 2024 rehabilitation, led by the Somaliland Ministry of Water Resources Development, included desilting the reservoir, constructing a secure perimeter fence, installing solar-powered pumping and piping systems, building a masonry tank and public water kiosk, and creating dedicated troughs for camels and goats. These improvements have enhanced climate resilience, drought preparedness, and water security for Holhol and nearby communities. The project was designed through extensive community consultations, incorporating input from elders, youth, and women to ensure it met local needs. Women, often the most affected by water scarcity, reported that the improvements significantly reduced the time spent fetching water, allowing them to focus on farming, childcare, and other activities.
The project also integrates digital monitoring, with real-time data from the dam feeding into a dashboard in Hargeisa. This system allows authorities to track water levels, manage supply for people and livestock, and optimize dam operations. Hydrological data, local consultations, and risk analysis guided the prioritization and design of the rehabilitation.
The Holhol Dam project demonstrates how infrastructure, community engagement, and technology can combine to build resilience against climate uncertainty. It highlights the potential for sustainable water management in Somalia, ensuring access to safe water for both people and livestock while supporting livelihoods and long-term climate adaptation.
