After the collapse of the Central Government of Somalia, crucial infrastructure was not maintained and quickly deteriorated, causing further problems such as flooding. In Shangaani District, the drainage system fell into disrepair and caused massive flooding in the streets and negatively affected area businesses.

Floods in Shangaani District hurt Fardows’s (seated) business. With the drainage rehabilitation, she no longer worries about floods affecting her sales. Photos: © IOM Somalia

IOM supported the Shangaani District administration to rehabilitate 500 meters of drainage and sewer canals. The project, which ended in July 2014, is a relief to many in the district, especially those whose livelihoods depend on flood-free streets. Fardows Uba Aden, the breadwinner for her seven-member family, sells tea on the sidewalk in Shangaani District.

“Before when it rained, floods came through here and we were not able to sell tea because the road was full of water. No one could pass through the water and it would take more than ten days to clear and those ten days were black days for us,” she said, referring to the other 16 women who operate small kiosks in the area.

She added, “After rehabilitation of the drainage and sewer, we see a big difference and even work when it is raining because the pipes of the drainage system are open.”

Rehabilitating the drainage and sewer system will ensure that Fardow’s tea stall remains open for business, regardless of the rain and increase the public’s confidence in the government’s ability to provide services, leading to stability.