In brief
- Somaliland Standard reported on 5 May 2019 that Hargeisa has large water resources in its vicinity, based on claims by SOM DRILL and SOMGEO.
- The companies claimed eight major water tables, including one with capacity of 80 thousand tons per day, but no independent verification or subsequent development has been reported.
- The announcement does not establish that any drilling, funding, or construction has occurred, or that Hargeisa's water supply has changed.
On 5 May 2019, Somaliland Standard reported that Hargeisa city has large water resources in its vicinity, citing a presentation by two companies, SOM DRILL and SOMGEO, at a local hotel.
The report said the companies unveiled technical satellite data claiming Hargeisa sits near eight major water tables. Speaking on behalf of the companies, group chairman Sheikh Abdihakin Said Barre said the southernmost table, named H7, had a drilling capacity of 80 thousand tons per day, equating to 86,560,000 litres. He also said H7 was the highest table and nearest to the surface, so it could be reached with ease.
The companies claimed the total capacity of all the under-water wells was 204,498 cubic metres of water, more than enough for daily use, according to the report. Sheikh Abdihakin said the nearest water table was 150 metres deep and the longest fathom was 400 metres.
The ministry of water development attended the presentation. Mohammed Yusuf, director of the water department, said the satellite data of the prospective non-salty water was a milestone the department would fully support, Somaliland Standard reported.
The article described the announcement as a surprise to many participants and members of the public, with traditional leaders expressing happiness. It also noted Hargeisa has been bedevilled by perpetual water shortages.
The 2019 report does not establish that any of the claimed water resources have been proven, developed, or are supplying Hargeisa. No subsequent developments, feasibility studies, drilling results, funding, contracts, or construction have been reported in the source. The water volumes, quality, sustainability, and accessibility remain unverified; the companies' figures are claims, not independent findings.
There is no information on the legal status, ownership, financing, or regulatory approvals for the companies or any project, and no confirmation of the current status of Hargeisa water supply or whether the resources have been utilised.
Frequently asked questions
What volume of water did the companies claim is available near Hargeisa?
Sheikh Abdihakin Said Barre, speaking on behalf of SOM DRILL and SOMGEO, said the total capacity of all the under-water wells is 204,498 cubic metres, and the H7 table alone has a drilling capacity of 80 thousand tons per day (86,560,000 litres), according to Somaliland Standard.
Has any drilling or construction occurred since the 2019 announcement?
The 2019 Somaliland Standard report does not establish any subsequent drilling, funding, contracts, or construction. No independent verification or further development has been reported.