Now, the well provides strong and sufficient water for the entire community.”
A well transforms lives in Huftiro, Somalia
In the village of Huftiro, Somalia, a once-neglected well has been brought back to life, revitalising not only the land but the lives of the people who depend on it. Thanks to the support of the European Union’s humanitarian aid and the work of Oxfam, this essential water source now serves as a cornerstone of health, dignity, and opportunity for the entire community.
Despite all the challenges, it has always been important because it serves a large community,”— Mohamed Yusuf Bulaale, resident of Huftiro, Somalia
From struggle to stability
Before the rehabilitation, the well was a daily source of struggle. With no functioning pump, tanks, or proper infrastructure, collecting water was both dangerous and exhausting, especially for women.
“It had no proper equipment, no kiosks, no tanks, no pumps,” said Cabdi Aadan Jaamac, a community member involved in managing the well.
“Even the pump we had was broken. Women faced many challenges. They had to carry heavy loads over long distances, and they suffered greatly. At night, they couldn’t even fetch water because of the fear of falling into the well or being attacked by wild animals.”
Oxfam’s intervention changed everything. The well was fully rehabilitated with new tanks, pipes, a modern pump, and kiosks for safe water distribution. Troughs were also installed for animals, and household taps were added to ease access.
A lifeline for livelihoods
The impact has been immediate and far-reaching. Livestock, which are central to life in Huftiro, now have consistent access to water.
“Today, the well can serve three herds of camels at a time, taking only a few minutes for them to drink,” Mohamed shared. “On average, forty camels drink from the well every day, and this happens before noon.”
Women, too, have seen a dramatic improvement in their daily routines.
“Today, the well can serve three herds of camels at a time, taking only a few minutes for them to drink,” Mohamed shared. “On average, forty camels drink from the well every day, and this happens before noon.”
Women, too, have seen a dramatic improvement in their daily routines.
We were afraid of falling into the well or being attacked by wild animals. Carrying heavy loads was a big challenge, and we had to travel far to get water. Now, we use taps connected to the well. There’s no trouble anymore, no need to fetch water from far away, and there’s no heavy lifting.”— Aisha Ali, resident of Sool region of northern Somalia
More than just water
Oxfam’s support extended beyond the well itself. The organisation also provided water containers and hygiene materials, particularly for women.
“These things might seem small, but they’ve made a big difference,” Aisha added. “We don’t face the same difficulties we used to, and our homes are much cleaner now.”
A brighter future
With reliable access to clean water, the people of Huftiro can now focus on building a better future. Families are healthier, livestock are thriving, and women have more time to care for their children and homes.
For Aisha and many others, the well is more than just a source of water; it’s a symbol of opportunity and progress. “Now that we have water nearby, life is so much easier,” she said.
In Huftiro, a simple act of rehabilitation has sparked a powerful transformation, one that will ripple through generations to come.
