An Analysis of Rain Water Harvesting Technologies and Water Quality for Irrigation and Adoption by Communities in Odwayne District, Somaliland

Abstract

In recent years, there have been concerted efforts to encourage the adoption of rainwater harvesting (RWH) technologies in Somaliland, chiefly through the construction of dams, shallow wells, and underground water tanks in the Odwayne District. Despite the importance of these technologies as alternatives to traditional sources of water in the region, their uptake has been low. Moreover, there is a dearth of studies evaluating farmers' perception and utilization of RWH, as well as its impact on their livelihoods and the environment. To address these gaps, evidence-based information is needed to guide the development of RWH policies and programs. Furthermore, it is crucial to evaluate different water harvesting techniques to determine their sustainability and impact on community livelihoods, and to inform future interventions. The present study seeks to assess agropastoral' knowledge and management of various RWH technologies, compare their effects on water quality and soil, and identify the most sustainable options for future interventions. A multistage sampling technique was used to collect data from a total of 180 farmers (100 non-applicants and 80 PED applicants). Key informant interviews (KIIs) and group discussions (FGDs) were also conducted to refine the questionnaire; data collected during the KIIs and FGDs were analyzed and used to validate the descriptive results. Water samples were collected from dams, Barkeds and shallow wells during the dry and wet seasons. A binary logit model was used to estimate factors influencing the technology adoption and a Poisson regression model (PRM) was used to determine factors influencing the intensity of technology adoption. Soil and water physicochemical data were collected, analyzed for each sample, and compared according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) standards for irrigation water quality. Survey, soil and water data were analyzed with STATA version 14 and Statistical Software for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 22, respectively. The results of the demonstration show that educational level and access to training have statistical differences between users and non-users of RHW technology. Berkads was also found to be the main source of water for households and livestock in the area. Social capital and collective action are very high due to the large number of respondents who are members of water associations...