Emergency Rehabilitation of a Water System

Emergency Rehabilitation of a Water System and Routine Maintenance of 29 Open Wells Serving 120,000 in Kismayo, Lower Juba Region

            March 2025

Project Overview

The Ministry of Energy and water Resources of Jubaland with support from UNICEF have successful completed of the rehabilitation of one motorized water scheme (Ambiyo system) and the routine maintenance of 29 hand-dug shallow wells in Kismayo District, Lower Juba Region, Jubaland State, Somalia. The initiative was part of ongoing efforts to enhance access to clean and safe water in a region where communities—particularly internally displaced people (IDPs) rely heavily on shallow groundwater due to the lack of a fully developed urban water supply system.

Funded by the European Commission’s Humanitarian Aid department (ECHO), implemented by the Jubaland Ministry of Energy and Water Resources (MoEWR), and technically supported by UNICEF, this project addressed the urgent water needs of vulnerable populations by rehabilitating and protecting key water sources. Building on previous interventions in the region, it delivered both immediate relief and laid the groundwork for long-term, sustainable water service delivery.

Kismayo, the commercial capital of Jubaland, is a densely populated town and a strategic hub for trade, governance, and development. In response to the pressing need for improved water infrastructure, this project undertook the rehabilitation of the Ambiyo water system and the routine maintenance of 29 shallow wells, directly benefiting an estimated 120,000 people.

A detailed assessment by the Jubaland Ministry of Energy and Water Resources had identified major challenges such as water contamination, seasonal shortages, and the disproportionate burden on women and children, who often walk long distances to fetch water. The rehabilitation efforts significantly improved water distribution, reduced reliance on unsafe sources, and helped prevent the spread of waterborne diseases such as Acute Watery Diarrhea (AWD).

PROJECT ACTIVITIES

The overall project activities included:

Upgrading and rehabilitation of one motorized water scheme (Ambiyo) with solar-powered technology.
Routine maintenance, desilting, and disinfection of 29 shallow wells.
Installation of 8 hand pumps including the construction of aprons and soak pits and fencing; and construction and rehabilitation of communal water collection points.

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Project Geographic Coverage

The Project target Geographical Area is Kismaayo District, of Lower juba Region - Jubaland State of Somalia.

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Project Components

1.Upgrading of one motorized water scheme (Ambiyo) with solar-powered technology.

2. Routine maintenance, desilting, and disinfection of 29 shallow wells.

3. Installation of hand pumps and construction of communal water collection points.

4. Promotion of community engagement and ownership to ensure long-term sustainability.

Project Achievements

1. Desilting and Disinfection of Shallow wells

Routine maintenance, desilting, and disinfection of 29 shallow wells to improve water quality and accessibility.

2. Installation of Hand pump

Installation of hand pumps at eight sites, including the construction of aprons and soak pits to enhance water collection efficiency and sanitation.

3. Rising and Distribution Water Mains:

A network of rising mains and distribution pipelines will be laid out to transport water from the wells to storage facilities.

4. Rehabilitation of 25m cubic Elevated Tank

Rehabilitation of elevated water tanks to provide storage and maintain water pressure for consistent distribution.

5. Rehabilitation of communal water kiosks:

Construction and rehabilitation of water Kiosk within the community to provide easily accessible points for residents to collect water, reducing the need for long-distance travel and improving convenience.

6.Chlorination

Chlorination of water sources will be carried out during the project implementation.

Project Stakeholders

The Project is Funded by ECHO , Supported By UNICEF and is being directly implemented by the ministry of Energy & Water Resources of Jubaland state.

Funded By

The Project is Funded by ECHO

Supported By

The Project is Supported by UNICEF

Implemented By

The Project is Implemented by the Ministry of Energy & Water Resources of Jubaland state - Somalia