El Afweyn Conflict
By Prof. Nassir Hussein Kahin, Executive Managing Editor
In the arid landscape of El-Afweyn District, where water scarcity has long fueled tensions, access to clean water is not just a necessity but a crucial element of peacebuilding. Oxfam’s water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives have played a key role in stabilizing communities by improving water quality, desalinating brackish water in the Sool and Sanaag regions, and fostering public-private partnerships to ensure long-term water availability.
The impact of these efforts is evident in local testimonials. Mawlid Kalinleh from Oxfam explains that when water infrastructure is absent, nomadic communities are forced to migrate in search of pasture, often leading to conflicts with settled groups. Community members, too, acknowledge the significance of water points in reducing tensions. Salah, the head of El Midgan Village, describes how disputes over water access have historically led to clashes between tribes. “Resolving these issues was significant in our area, and anyone who supports efforts to increase and sustain water points is commendable,” he says.
Beyond immediate water access, Oxfam’s integrated approach has encouraged agricultural development, shifting livelihoods away from dependence on livestock. In villages like El Midgan and Kal Sheikh, access to water, seeds, and farming demonstrations has prompted a growing interest in greenhouse agriculture. This shift has not only provided a stable food source but has also contributed to conflict reduction. Abdullahi, a resident of El Midgan, reflects on this transformation: “In the past, we were not so productive other than herding livestock, and we used to glare at each other. Now, people look at the soil and don’t have time to glare at each other.”
Alongside these infrastructure projects, grassroots peacebuilding committees have emerged as critical players in conflict resolution. Oxfam has supported these committees by training elders and women in mediation techniques, ensuring that humanitarian aid distribution is conducted in a conflict-sensitive manner. These committees serve as platforms for dialogue, bringing together religious leaders, government officials, and community representatives to resolve disputes. Hawa, a peace committee member, describes her experience: “I love my work, and I know it helps my community live together and focus on their common interests instead of hating each other because of what happened in the past.”
One notable success story involves a long-standing dispute between farmers and herders over water usage from a well in El Midgan. As both groups vied for access, tensions escalated, threatening the stability of the village. The local peacebuilding committee intervened, facilitating discussions between clan elders and community leaders. The resolution—designating daytime water use for herders and nighttime access for farmers—demonstrated the power of community-led conflict resolution.
Economic empowerment has also played a role in fostering stability. Oxfam’s support for Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) has provided women and small business owners with financial resources, enabling them to invest in local enterprises and contribute to household income. Hawa Sahal Karshe, a VSLA leader, highlights the broader societal impact: “Before we began to collect and save money to support our families, women used to push their boys to take revenge and get involved in conflict. However, now we work against anything that could disrupt our lives, economic activities, and stability.”
While women’s economic participation has strengthened social cohesion, some community members emphasize the need for continued investment in men’s livelihoods. Abdullahi, a farmer, notes that while women’s financial empowerment benefits families, targeted support for male farmers could further reduce economic instability and the lure of conflict. “Whatever support they (women) obtain comes to the family, but it is important to invest in farming so that we have something that keeps us away from idleness,” he says.
The convergence of water access, livelihood development, and grassroots peacebuilding has reshaped the social fabric of El-Afweyn. By addressing the root causes of conflict—scarcity, economic hardship, and lack of dialogue—Oxfam’s integrated approach has helped communities move away from cycles of violence. Though challenges remain, the progress made in El Midgan and surrounding villages offers a promising model for building lasting peace in drought-prone and conflict-affected regions.
