Impacts of Climate Change on Water Resource Availability in Somalia: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Somalia, located in the Horn of Africa, is facing a serious challenge as climate change makes water shortages worse, threatening the country’s economy and the way people live. This review looks at how climate change is affecting Somalia’s water supply, focusing on changes in rainfall, more frequent droughts, and the loss of underground water. Most of Somalia’s people depend on farming and raising animals. However, irregular rainfall, long dry periods, and higher temperatures have hurt these activities, reducing the amount of water available and making food shortages worse. Northern Somalia struggles with the overuse of underground water, while southern areas face flooding and dirty water. These problems have made poverty worse, forced people to leave their homes, and caused conflicts over limited water, especially between farmers and herders. Despite these challenges, there are ways to improve the situation. This review suggests solutions such as using water-saving methods like drip irrigation, collecting rainwater, and refilling underground water supplies. Building dams and reservoirs, planting trees, and protecting soil can also help in the long term. Good government leadership is essential. Somalia needs strong rules for managing water, better systems to prepare for disasters, and teamwork with nearby countries to share water fairly. Help from other countries, including financial support, is also very important. The review shows that Somalia needs simple, creative, and community-focused plans to deal with climate change. By using these solutions, Somalia can turn its water shortage problem into an opportunity, ensuring enough water for its people, improving its economy, and becoming a role model for dry regions. Acting now is crucial to protect Somalia’s future.