It was mentioned in the daily newspapers that a third transmission pipe would be added to the existing two parallel pipes that bring water to Hargeisa. “From Hargeisa water agency and the ministry.”

The implementing agency is said to be UN-HABITAT, which according to the writer is not an agency that he can trust with such a sensitive project after 1998 Sheikh water project.

The boreholes in the well-field may not cope with long periods of pumping using the three transmission pipes without interfering with the existing water table which if lowered would have a very serious consequence.

Therefore the following points should be considered before implementation of the project:

1. UN-HABITAT should employ qualified water engineers

2. A committee of engineers should be formed to study the visibility of this project and subsequent follow up

This is a national issue which should not be taken lightly.

Eng. Ali Haibe Mohamed

Ex USAID/UNICEF water engineer and head of the Chinese during the implementation of this project 1971-74.

By: Eng. Ali Haibe Mohamed

1 COMMENT

  1. The local government of Hargeisa and central government of Somaliland, should learn a thing or two from their sister city Borama, how did this city solved its water crisis long time ago and Hargeisa is still struggling? I was told the city of Borama, has enough water that is used 24/7. And the shortage of water is a thing of the past. Why is Hargeisa municipality not follow example of their sister city?

  2. Agree, but, Borama is in a better location in terms of water, and its far more manageable than Hargeisa. The water is there, mainly underground, it is a question of getting the distribution right. You have to appreciate that in Hargeisa most of the pipes and sewers are from the colonial period. Not a cent was spent on water development in the thirty years between 1960-1991. It will take time, but as long that the effort is being made, and the projects are held accountable, then, Insha'Allah, all will be well.

  3. Eng. Ali Haibe Mohamed, Is a profound expert and spoken of an outstanding issue.Something should be done sooner than later.