MOGADISHU — A technical workshop officially commenced today in Balcad district, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation (MoAI) of the Federal Government of Somalia in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation of Hirshabelle State, as part of the implementation of the Jowhar Offstream Storage Programme (JOSP), aimed at strengthening irrigation water management and improving local governance of water resources in targeted areas.
According to a media update published on the Ministry’s official Facebook page, the three-day workshop seeks to establish structured and effective irrigation committees that enhance canal management and promote active participation of farmers and water users in planning, operation, and maintenance activities.
The workshop brings together farmers, water users, canal committees, Balcad district administration officials, community leaders, and representatives from the Federal Government of Somalia and Hirshabelle State, reflecting a participatory approach to sustainable water resource management.
Discussions focus on improving irrigation efficiency, reducing water losses, and enhancing distribution systems to support agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods in local communities.
The Ministry emphasized that the establishment of irrigation committees represents a key step toward strengthening the agricultural sector, enhancing food security, and reinforcing shared management of natural resources between the state and communities.
The Jowhar Offstream Storage Programme (JOSP) is a strategic initiative implemented by the Federal Government of Somalia in the Shabelle River basin. It aims to improve flood management and irrigation infrastructure, thereby increasing agricultural productivity and strengthening community resilience to climate-related challenges, particularly floods and droughts.
Somali Observatory for Humanitarian Affairs The Voice of Reality.. The Eye of Humanitarian Truth in Somalia