BELEDWEYN (Halbeeg News)-There is a high risk of waterborne epidemics reported from riverine towns and villages that rely on river Shabelle for water in Hirshabelle regional state of Somalia.
The water level of the river has significantly lowered in the recent months leading to discolouration and odour change of water.
According to health officials in Beledweyn town, there is a threat of waterborne disease outbreak if preventive measures are not put in place on time.
“If the level of water reduces there is a risk of waterborne disease such as typhoid, and cholera,” Mohamed Hussein Abdulle, the health official said.
The low level of Shabelle River water has also affected the farming activities in the region.
Farmers fear for their upcoming harvest as this water shortage might affect.
Abdi Bare, a farmer from the area who faced the same situation two years ago says he hopes rain water will help them before the situation goes out of hand.
“I irrigate my farm during the night because the water is salty and will affect the produce while plants need a lot of water during the day,” he said.
The water shortage is attributed to an ongoing dam project in the neighbouring country, Ethiopia.
Shabelle River extends from Ethiopian highlands and enters Somalia from Hiiraan region through Beleddweyne, Bulabarde, Jalalaqsi and dozens of villages.
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