African Journal of Black and Liberation Theology | 05 October 2007
Farmer Satisfaction and Rainwater Collection Analysis in Somali Rural Villages Deploying Water Harvesting Technologies
H, u, s, s, e, i, n, A, l, i, -, S, h, e, h, a, t, a, ,, A, h, m, e, d, E, l, -, S, a, y, e, d
Abstract
Water scarcity is a significant challenge in rural Somali villages, particularly during dry seasons when traditional water sources become scarce or contaminated. Rainwater collection through water harvesting technologies offers a sustainable solution to mitigate this issue. A survey was conducted among farmers using water harvesting technologies, focusing on their perceptions regarding system efficiency and benefits. Data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed across selected villages. Farmer satisfaction scores averaged 85%, indicating high acceptance of rainwater collection systems as a reliable source for household needs. Notably, in one village, farmers reported an average increase of 20% in water storage volumes compared to before adopting the technology. The findings suggest that farmer satisfaction with rainwater collection technologies is robust and correlates positively with observed volume gains from rainfall. These results highlight the potential of such systems for enhancing rural water security and sustainability. Given the positive outcomes, it is recommended to integrate additional training programmes on maintenance practices and expand the distribution of these technologies in other Somali villages facing similar challenges. Farmer Satisfaction, Rainwater Collection, Water Harvesting Technologies, Rural Somalia