The Hailemariam & Roman Foundation (HRF), with financial support from Gates Foundation, officially inaugurated two climate-resilient sand dams on November 10, 2026, in Alte Argude Kebele, Bena Tsemay Woreda and Shanqo Wolfo Kebele, Hamer Woreda, in South Omo Zone.
With a combined investment of ETB 16 million, the two sand dams are expected to benefit more 5,000 people across 1,154 households and provide a more reliable water source for approximately 275,000 livestock, strengthening the livelihoods and resilience of pastoral and agro-pastoral communities.
Equipped with solar-powered water supply systems, community drinking water points and dedicated livestock troughs, the facilities provide an integrated approach to addressing the water needs of local communities and their livestock.
Speaking at the inauguration, H.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia and Board Chair of HRF, underscored the importance of collective commitment, government partnership and community ownership in ensuring the long-term sustainability of development investments.
Beyond improving access to water, the sand dams represent an important investment in protecting livestock-based livelihoods, strengthening the resilience of pastoral and agro-pastoral communities and advancing sustainable development in South Omo.
