Highlights

A country as Somalia, access to water is estimated at 32% while populations with improved sanitation are estimated at a staggering 24%, among the lowest in the world. On the energy front, approximately
2.4Million households across Somalia lack access to power and use firewood, and charcoal with harmful consequences to people and the environment. As a starting point to facilitate access to power, sustainable off-green energy solutions would be a cost-effective alternative to setting up a national electricity grid. This leaves millions unable to access clean and sustainable energy.
ERDO focus is to facilitate access to affordable and reliable safe water and clean energy to both rural and urban communities. This will involve interventions aimed at promoting setting up energy and water infrastructure in strategic locations. Key partners will help drive interventions, including political support, facilitation of needed capital, and local support.

The Current WASH Situation in Somalia

1. Limited Access to Clean Water

   • Scarcity: Many communities in Somalia rely on contaminated water sources, leading to widespread waterborne diseases. The scarcity of clean water forces people, especially women and children, to walk long distances to fetch water, impacting their health and productivity.
   • Infrastructure: The lack of infrastructure means that even when water is available, it is often not safe for drinking. Many rural areas lack the necessary wells, boreholes, and purification systems to ensure a reliable supply of clean water.

2. Inadequate Sanitation Facilities

   • Open Defecation: Due to the lack of proper sanitation facilities, open defecation is common in many areas. This practice contaminates water sources and spreads diseases, posing a severe health risk to communities.
   • Health Impact: Poor sanitation facilities are directly linked to the spread of diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, and typhoid. These conditions are particularly dangerous for children, contributing to high rates of child mortality.

3. Hygiene Challenges

   • Lack of Awareness: Many communities lack basic hygiene education, leading to poor practices such as inadequate handwashing. This exacerbates the spread of infectious diseases.
   • Insufficient Resources: Even when communities are aware of good hygiene practices, the lack of resources such as soap and clean water makes it difficult to implement them effectively.