Keeping Water—and Communities—in Place

For generations, Somali farmers have relied on the Gu and Deyr rains, the two annual rainy seasons, to sustain their crops and livestock. But today, due to a changing climate, unpredictable droughts and devastating floods are threatening livelihoods, forcing many to abandon their land and migrate in search of security elsewhere.

“Water is so valuable that if a water catchment or borehole breaks, it inevitably means the community will have to leave their homes,” shares food insecurity expert Abdikadir Dooy, reflecting on the harsh realities many communities face.

In this context, Y-PEER Somalia is shaping an initiative to strengthen climate resilience by bringing together farmers, climate experts, and community leaders in a cooperative to equip communities with the resources and knowledge needed to adapt to climate change without being forced to migrate.

The proposed initiative envisions rehabilitating boreholes and water catchments to ensure stable water access. But learning new ways to collect and harvest rainwater isn’t enough. Y-PEER Somalia also plans to provide farmers with training in planting drought-resistant seeds, adopting sustainable farming techniques, and utilizing improved irrigation systems to make the most of available resources while improving productivity. A key component of the approach is to form cooperatives for farmers to have a collaborative space to share resources, exchange knowledge, and plan collective action.

One of the most innovative aspects of this proposal is the creation of Somalia’s first-ever digital marketplace for farmers. Currently, rural producers lack access to real-time market information, leaving them vulnerable to intermediaries who dictate crop prices. With a digital platform, farmers would be able to check up-to-date prices, connect directly with buyers, and negotiate fair deals that reflect the true value of their produce. By integrating technology with agriculture, Y-PEER envisions a fairer and more sustainable market.

Y-PEER has a long track record of mobilizing youth and advocating for policies that protect communities in Somalia. By leveraging its experience in coalition-building, the organization aims to create lasting solutions that address both the immediate and systemic challenges facing Somali farmers.

This initiative offers an innovative approach for keeping water—and communities—in place. With the right support, it has the potential to transform the way Somali farmers adapt to climate change, build sustainable livelihoods, and secure their future on their land.

Learn more about Y-PEER Somalia’s work here!