Somaliland seeks Israel's help for water crisis

Parts of Somaliland, including Lallays, report little or no rain since last June or July, harming crops and local livelihoods. Somaliland and Israel have begun civilian cooperation on water, with a first group of 25 water workers sent for training and technical visits planned.

Many parts of Somaliland are facing extended dry conditions that have left fields parched and local reservoirs empty. Farmers in Lallays say no rain has fallen there since last June or July, and some families report children are out of school. In December, Israel formally recognised Somaliland, and both sides are now emphasizing civilian cooperation on water, agriculture, health and economic issues. Israel has invited Somaliland water sector workers for training, and Israeli experts are due to visit soon to help install water technology. Key facts: - Local reports say Lallays has had no rain since last June or July, with seeded furrows left as dust and reservoirs dry. - Somaliland's Ministry of Agriculture reports that rainy seasons have been late and meagre for at least five years, and only about 3 percent of the territory is under cultivation because of water shortages. - In December, Israel recognised Somaliland; civilian cooperation now focuses on water and agriculture, and a first batch of 25 Somaliland water workers left for training this weekend. - Regional agencies report rising food insecurity related to drought, with the World Food Programme estimating about 4.4 million people across Somalia, including Somaliland, are facing severe food needs. Summary: Prolonged dry conditions are reducing the land available for farming and contributing to worsening food insecurity in Somaliland. Civilian cooperation with Israel has begun, with training under way and technical visits planned to address water management. The pace and scale of any improvements remain undetermined at this time.