The Hailemariam & Roman Foundation (HRF) has launched the construction of sand dams in Alta Argude Kebele of Bena Tsemay Woreda and Shanko Kebele of Hamer Woreda under its Agricultural Transformation, Food and Nutrition Security Project, aiming to strengthen access to water for communities and livestock in South Omo Zone.
Sand dams are water-harvesting structures built across seasonal rivers to store water within accumulated sand, creating a reliable underground reservoir that can be accessed during dry periods. Research shows that sand dams are an effective and climate-resilient alternative water source in arid and semi-arid areas, as they reduce evaporation losses and enhance groundwater recharge.
The two kebeles are located in predominantly pastoralist districts where livelihoods depend heavily on livestock and where water scarcity remains a major challenge. When completed, the sand dams are expected to benefit thousands of people and large numbers of cattle by improving year-round water availability for domestic use and livestock watering.
