Completed Project – 12

Between February and May 2026, Kaalo Nederland implemented the Emergency Humanitarian Response to Drought-Affected Communities in Puntland project in Dangorayo District, Nugaal Region, Somalia. The intervention responded to the severe humanitarian impacts of prolonged drought on pastoral communities, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and vulnerable rural households by combining emergency relief with long-term planning for sustainable water access.

Emergency Water Assistance

Access to safe drinking water was one of the most urgent needs facing drought-affected communities. Through the project, Kaalo Nederland delivered 150 water tanks, each containing 10,000 litres of safe drinking water, providing approximately 1.5 million litres of clean water to 300 vulnerable households, benefiting an estimated 1,950 people across Dangorayo, Budunbuto, Libaho, and surrounding rural communities. The intervention helped reduce the immediate risks associated with water shortages and protected families from waterborne diseases during the drought.

Mobile Health Services

To improve access to essential healthcare, the project deployed mobile health teams that conducted four outreach sessions in the target communities. Approximately 200 people received healthcare services, including 120 women and 80 children. Services included treatment of common illnesses, maternal and child healthcare, childhood vaccinations in coordination with relevant health authorities, and malnutrition screening to identify children requiring additional nutritional support.

Sustainable Water Availability Assessment

Recognizing that emergency assistance alone cannot address recurring drought challenges, the project also carried out a Sustainable Water Availability Assessment. The assessment reviewed existing information on water challenges, mapped available water sources, and surveyed areas with potential for groundwater development. Particular attention was given to identifying the most suitable locations for future borehole drilling and other long-term water supply investments. The findings have been documented in a standalone technical report that will guide future water infrastructure planning and investment.

Achievements and Impact

The project successfully addressed urgent humanitarian needs while laying the foundation for longer-term resilience. Families received life-saving access to safe drinking water during a critical period, vulnerable women and children gained access to essential healthcare services, and communities now have a comprehensive evidence base to support future investments in sustainable water solutions.

By integrating emergency relief with strategic planning, Kaalo Nederland helped protect lives, strengthen community resilience, and support more sustainable responses to the increasing impacts of climate-related drought in Puntland.