Life for Relief and Development USA (LIFE) Constructs Three Wells in Rural Somalia, Securing Safe Drinking Water for Thousands
- ajoyce140
- Aug 25
- 3 min read
The world has seen so much turmoil, instability and suffering at the hands of its most powerful and sentient species: humans. Earth is no stranger to the major natural disasters that occur throughout time. No matter what may happen, nature is resilient and adaptive and, up to a certain point, has persevered. However, it seems we are determined to push the blessing of this bounteous planet past that point.
Blinded by our greed and the capitalistic system that fuels us, pollution, deforestation, and the exploitation of resources have become the norm, leading to climate change and the potential extinction of over a million species. Ironically, mankind is one of these vulnerable and dependent species that relies on nature’s very delicate balance. Ultimately, in our insatiable quest for more, we are paying the most expensive price for our gluttony: the demise of our species!
Droughts are an example of the impact mankind has had on the severity of natural disasters. Affecting more people globally than any other natural disaster, droughts have become more common, severe, and damaging than they once were due to the effects of human behavior. In fact, 55 million people are affected by droughts each year, with the Horn of Africa being the hardest hit. Between 2020-2023, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Kenya experienced the worst drought in 40 years, affecting over 36 million people.
Somalia is one of the countries that is still recovering from the effects of this drought today, with nearly 50% of its population lacking access to safe and sufficient water for their daily needs. This lack of water has profound implications for millions, as around 80% of Somalis rely on farming as their main source of income and sustenance. Subsequent crop failure, along with pasture and livestock loss, has left 4.4 million people in Somalia facing acute food insecurity, with 1.7 million children under the age of 5 expected to suffer from acute malnutrition.
Aware of the worsening impact that droughts have had on Somalia’s population, Life for Relief and Development USA (LIFE) has overseen the installation of three water wells, between 1st March and 10th March 2025, in Somalia’s rural Ceel-Ma’an District. The three water wells were dug in some of the most vulnerable villages, serving a total number of 6070 individuals: 1960 recipients in the village of Buulo Wardheer, 2040 beneficiaries in Irile Village, and 2070 in Buulo Yoonto.
This water project, aimed at tackling significant water shortages experienced by residents, has guaranteed a reliable supply of clean water for essential daily activities like drinking, cooking, irrigation, and sanitation, elevating living standards. These wells have not only addressed immediate water access issues but have also contributed to improved health, economic activities, childhood education and local governance.
The profound impact these wells have had can be seen in the relief and joy felt by all members of the community. Women were relieved from the burden of walking 7 to 10 kilometers daily for water and elderly villagers no longer had to worry about access to this vital resource. The well brought a newfound sense of dignity and liberation, allowing villagers to concentrate on other important aspects of their lives.
These wells are not only serving local communities but have already significantly changed the lives of many others. The well in the village of Bulo Yonto has infinitely improved the lives of its 2070 residents, who previously depended on rainwater for their water supply, resulting in a high rate of waterborne diseases. While this in itself is a considerable achievement, the well has also provided a level of security and stability to a nearby nomadic community. These nomads, who were frequently on the move in search of water and grazing land for their livestock, have found a reason to settle down thanks to your donations. With a reliable water source to depend on, the well has allowed them to remain in one location for extended periods, providing security for their families. improving the health of their livestock, and enhancing the community’s financial stability.
While mankind has the ability to destroy and damage on an immense scale, this is merely an indication of man’s free will. As demonstrated by your donations and LIFE’s consistent projects and efforts, we are equally able to do so much good, uniquely capable of repairing and protecting. Thank you for all the good you have contributed. It is your humanity and kindness, one donation at a time, that makes the world a better place.
