By Goth Mohamed Goth
Jerusalem, Israel — A rigorous 11-day training program on urban water management for professionals from Somaliland’s Ministry of Water Development drew to a close yesterday evening with a modest yet significant graduation ceremony, during which participants received certificates for successfully completing the course.
Designed as a comprehensive capacity-building initiative, the program equipped the Somaliland delegation with in-depth knowledge of contemporary water and wastewater management systems. Over the course of their stay, participants held productive engagements with experts and senior policymakers from Israel’s foremost water institutions—including the Israel Water Authority, Mekorot, and multiple municipal utilities—gaining valuable perspectives on governance frameworks and service delivery models operating at both national and local levels.
The delegation also embarked on guided field visits to several major water utilities, among them Mei Avivim in Tel Aviv, Meniv in Rishon LeZion, Hagihon in Jerusalem, and Neve Midbar in the Negev. These on-site excursions provided participants with direct exposure to real-world challenges, innovative solutions, and industry-leading practices shaping modern urban water management.
The curriculum encompassed a wide array of essential subjects, ranging from brackish water desalination and river restoration to advanced irrigation techniques, applied water research, and cutting-edge technologies aimed at boosting water efficiency and long-term sustainability.
Throughout the program, officials emphasized the transformative value of cross-border knowledge exchange and international collaboration in reinforcing Somaliland’s water sector and empowering its professionals to confront mounting water-related challenges with greater competence and confidence.
The ceremony closed with heartfelt appreciation extended to all contributing experts and host institutions. Participants were warmly encouraged to translate their newly acquired insights into tangible actions that will advance the sustainable development of Somaliland’s water resources and public services.
