Ministry of Water Resources (Somaliland)

In 1991, when Somaliland reclaimed its independence, the government body responsible for water resources was part of the Ministry of Mining and Water (Wasaaradda Macdanta iyo Biyaha).^[1]

In March 2011, the National Water Act (Xeerka Biyaha Qaranka, Law No. 49/2010) was enacted in Somaliland. Under this legislation, the Ministry of Water Resources (Wasaaradda Khayraadka Biyaha) was designated as the primary government body responsible for the management, protection, and allocation of the nation's water resources.^[2] It is also referred to by this name in the December 2017 Presidential Decree.^[3]

In October 2014, Minister of Water launched a major water exploration project in Las Anod, Sool region, to address severe water shortages. The initiative, part of a broader development plan for eastern regions, involved collaboration between the government and local stakeholders. This project aimed to secure sustainable clean water for the community.^[4]

In December 2018, under the Somaliland Waste Management and Urban Sanitation Act (Law No. 83/2018) enacted, the Ministry of Water Resources Development (Wasaaradda Horumarinta Khayraadka Biyaha) was identified as one of the key ministries responsible for waste management and public sanitation. Its primary mandates involve protecting water resources in collaboration with local governments, preventing the pollution of water resources, and being involved in waste treatment, landfilling, and incineration.^[5]

In February 2019, Minister of Water Resources addressed Somaliland's pressing water needs, prioritizing the 90% complete Hargeisa water expansion project. He highlighted regional progress, including a major sweet water well in Erigavo and plans for Las Anod’s first clean water system.^[6]

In January 2021, Minister of Water Resources Development emphasized the ministry's role in national progress during the 2021 Performance Book launch. He noted that advancements in basic infrastructure and the modernization of government service delivery systems are key indicators of growth.^[7]

In July 2025, the Somaliland government, through the Ministry of Water Resources Development, improved national water services. Projects included drilling wells in Burao and Erigavo, restoring dormant sources, and constructing dams in Garadag and El Afweyn. These efforts, including a major Berbera expansion, support a five-year plan to permanently end emergency water trucking and ensure long-term drought resilience.^[8]