Farmers in Somaliland are struggling with severe drought and water shortages, impacting their crop yields and food security, but partnerships aimed at improving water management may offer some hope.
In Somaliland, farmers face dire challenges due to a prolonged drought exacerbated by climate change, significantly reducing their crop yields. Farmer Muhummad Mohamad Ismail reports that he has lost over half of his harvest, and survival now hinges on efficient water management techniques, such as creating trenches to capture rainwater. Despite these efforts, many farmers are grappling with unprecedented water shortages that are threatening their livelihoods.
The crisis has led to severe food insecurity across the region, affecting an estimated 4.4 million people in Somalia, including Somaliland, according to the World Food Programme. Farmers like Faysal Omar Salah have had to adapt their planting strategies due to the declining rainfall, only managing to plant a minimal amount of beans in the hopes of a few drops. This stark reality highlights the agricultural vulnerability faced by many in this region and the urgent need for support.
Despite these challenges, initiatives and partnerships aimed at improving agricultural resilience and water management, particularly through collaboration with Israel, are being seen as a possible glimmer of hope. These partnerships may provide the necessary resources and technology to help transform farming practices and alleviate some of the pressures of ongoing drought conditions. However, the effectiveness of such initiatives will be critical in determining the future of food security in Somaliland.
