Baidoa, South West State – 10 July 2025 — A delegation from the National Project Coordination Unit (NPCU) of the Somalia Rural Resilience Project (Barwaaqo), under the Federal Ministry of Planning, Investment and Economic Development, alongside the South West State Project Implementation Unit (PIU), visited the newly constructed haffir dam in Guri-Gaab, a village on the outskirts of Baidoa.

Led by Mr. Abdirahim Ibrahim Mohamed (Mudey), National M&E Specialist, and Mr. Abdullahi Abdulmutalib, Acting South West State Coordinator, the team evaluated the progress of the project and gathered community feedback ahead of the upcoming Midterm Review in August 2025.

Community members welcomed the delegation warmly and shared heartfelt testimonies. “For years, we struggled to find water for ourselves, our animals, and our crops. Now, thanks to this project, water is no longer a distant dream,” shared Mr. Sheikh Isaq Iftin, Chairman of the Village Development Committee (VDC).

The haffir dam, lined with geo-materials for improved durability, features a solar-powered water system with an elevated tank, tap stands, and livestock troughs—greatly improving access to safe water. Women and children, in particular, benefit from shorter distances and improved hygiene.

Delegates observed herders watering their livestock and thriving sorghum fields—a sign that agriculture and food security are improving. “This is resilience in action—rural communities becoming stronger and better equipped to face climate challenges,” said Mr. Abdulmutalib.

Women at the water point expressed deep gratitude, emphasising how clean water has changed daily life, reducing health risks, saving time, and restoring dignity.

The visit highlighted the success of close federal-state collaboration and reaffirmed the transformative impact of the Barwaaqo Project in building climate resilience and hope across Somalia’s drylands.