EAHFA'S COMMITMENT TO THE UN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

EAHFA proudly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on ending poverty, ensuring food security, promoting sustainable agriculture, and fostering environmental conservation. Our projects are designed to empower communities, enhance resilience, and contribute to a sustainable future for all. Together, we work towards a healthier planet and a brighter future. 🌍 #SDGs #Sustainability #EAHFA

ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES IN SOMALILAND

1. Water Scarcity

Somaliland faces severe water shortages due to minimal rainfall, erratic weather patterns, and increasing demand from population growth. Over 70% of Somaliland's population lives in rural areas, heavily reliant on agriculture and livestock, sectors that depend on consistent water access for survival. Yet, nearly 90% of Somaliland’s groundwater is non-potable due to contamination and over-extraction.

2. Land Degradation and Desertification

Land degradation is a growing concern, with over 60% of Somaliland’s arid lands facing desertification due to unsustainable land practices, deforestation, and overgrazing. Desertification reduces arable land, threatening food security and biodiversity while exacerbating poverty and displacement in rural communities.

3. Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution is a significant issue in Somaliland, particularly in urban centers like Hargeisa and Berbera. With limited recycling infrastructure, waste disposal primarily involves open burning or dumping, polluting land and water sources. According to studies, plastic constitutes nearly 35% of waste in urban regions, contributing to environmental degradation and posing health risks.

4. Climate Change Impacts

Climate change intensifies Somaliland’s environmental vulnerabilities, including unpredictable weather patterns, increased drought frequency, and heightened risk of extreme climate events. The most vulnerable are Somaliland’s nomadic and rural communities, whose livelihoods depend on predictable climates for agriculture and livestock. According to a 2022 FAO report, the drought affected 4.5 million people, causing a significant humanitarian crisis.

EAHFA’S APPROACH TO ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS

1. Expanding Water Access and Conservation Efforts

• Water Wells and Reservoir Projects: EAHFA is dedicated to addressing water scarcity by installing community-based water wells and reservoirs across Somaliland. By increasing water access, particularly in drought-prone areas, we aim to reduce the effects of water shortages and improve agricultural productivity.

• Water Conservation and Education: Alongside infrastructure, EAHFA conducts training programs on water-saving techniques and sustainable agricultural practices. We empower communities to reduce water waste and embrace irrigation methods that protect valuable water resources.

• Rainwater Harvesting: By promoting rainwater harvesting at household and community levels, EAHFA aims to make the most of the seasonal rains, reducing the dependency on diminishing groundwater reserves.

2. Reforestation and Sustainable Land Management

• Tree-Planting Initiatives: Through extensive tree-planting programs in desertified and degraded regions, EAHFA is working to combat soil erosion, restore arable land, and improve air quality. In partnership with local schools and communities, EAHFA has planted over 10 native trees across Somaliland to date, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.

• Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: EAHFA encourages sustainable farming practices, like crop rotation, composting, and organic farming, that increase soil health and productivity. Training workshops provide farmers with skills and resources to enhance yield while minimizing land degradation.

• Fencing and Protected Areas: To protect reforested areas, EAHFA installs community-maintained fences, preventing overgrazing and giving new vegetation a chance to flourish.

3. Reducing Plastic Pollution through Recycling and Awareness

• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (3R) Campaigns: EAHFA’s 3R campaigns engage communities in sustainable waste management practices by promoting reduced plastic use and introducing community-based recycling solutions. With workshops and education sessions, we raise awareness of the environmental impact of plastic and encourage alternative solutions.

• Plastic Collection and Recycling Hubs: Partnering with local businesses, EAHFA is establishing recycling hubs in urban areas like Hargeisa and Berbera. These hubs will create jobs and serve as centers for sustainable waste management by converting plastic waste into reusable materials.

• Reusable Alternatives: EAHFA is working with communities to transition to biodegradable and reusable alternatives, reducing reliance on single-use plastics and promoting environmentally friendly practices in everyday life.

4. Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Building

• Climate-Resilient Livelihoods: EAHFA prioritizes livelihood diversification, offering training in drought-resistant crops and alternative income sources such as beekeeping and eco-tourism. By reducing dependency on climate-sensitive agriculture, we help families withstand unpredictable weather conditions.

• Early Warning Systems: EAHFA collaborates with local authorities to implement early warning systems for climate-related disasters, such as droughts and floods, which enable communities to prepare and respond effectively to crises.

• Educational Programs: EAHFA conducts climate change education workshops, providing communities with the knowledge and tools they need to adapt to climate variability and extreme weather events.

OUR VISION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

At EAHFA, we envision a sustainable and resilient Somaliland where communities are empowered to overcome environmental challenges and improve their livelihoods. Through collaboration with local authorities, international partners, and the communities we serve, we aim to drive holistic, community-led change that enhances Somaliland’s environmental health.

JOIN US IN OUR MISSION

Whether you’re interested in contributing to our reforestation projects, supporting plastic recycling initiatives, or funding water well installations, your involvement can make a significant impact. Together, we can transform Somaliland’s environmental landscape for a brighter, more sustainable future.