In this open call project, UNITAC-Hamburg collaborated with Hargeisa Water Agency to introduce a digital water platform designed to enhance equitable access to safe and affordable water in Hargeisa.
Hargeisa, the largest city of the Somaliland region at the eastern Horn of Africa, has experienced rapid urban growth in recent years. This expansion has outpaced investments in essential infrastructure, particularly in the water sector. The Hargeisa Water Agency estimates that only 30–37%1 of residents have direct access to piped water, leaving the majority dependent on water kiosks and vendors.
In Hargeisa, women and children traditionally bear the responsibility of fetching water—often walking long distances, which impacts their health, safety, education, and access to livelihood opportunities. In focus group discussions facilitated by UNITAC-Hamburg with representatives from underserved neighbourhoods, participants reported that water prices are disproportionately higher compared to areas connected to the piped network.
To address these challenges, UNITAC-Hamburg developed a digital water platform that connects households without piped water to registered water vendors. The tool aims to support Hargeisa to improve affordability, transparency, and quality in the water supply chain, ultimately enhancing the well-being of women in disadvantaged communities. In developing the tool, UNITAC-Hamburg engaged with vendors and residents to understand potential opportunities and barriers to its use. Some vendors may lack smartphones or digital literacy, while others expressed concerns during focus groups about increased certification requirements. At the same time, some vendors recognized the opportunity for increased visibility and access to new customers.
In December 2025, the water app was officially handed over to the Hargeisa Water Agency. To support the long-term maintenance of the tool, UNITAC-Hamburg conducted capacity building activities including train-the-trainer sessions with Hargeisa Water Agency.
The introduction of the water app is expected to support Hargeisa advance equitable, affordable, and reliable access to safe water for households in underserved areas. By connecting users directly with certified water vendors, the platform aims to reduce the time spent fetching water and to mitigate the safety and health risks frequently encountered by women and children, who traditionally shoulder this responsibility. This shift enables greater opportunities for participation in education, community life, and economic activities.
In addition, the platform’s vendor rating and certification features are designed to improve the consistency and quality of water supplied, strengthen user trust, ultimately leading to safer water consumption.
1Figures provided by Hargeisa Water Agency
Sources:
UN-Habitat, Somalia