Solar versus Diesel Powered Water Pumps in Meeting Sustainability Goals in Somalia, a qualitative study

Mulatu Tiruneh Kassa , Peter Redding, Teshome Bekele Elema

Somalia endowed with high solar energy is still using diesel energy as the major source of energy to pump drinking water. This put the country under question from achieving SDG 6 which targets universal access to clean and sustainably managed water. Therefore, this study gathers qualitative data from relevant key stakeholders in Puntland, Somalia through individual in-depth interviews and analyze the data qualitatively to identify and explore the barriers and concepts to its successful implementation in meeting sustainable goals in Somalia.
The interview data were transcribed and analyzed thematically using template analysis style with the aid of NVIVO 12 qualitative analysis software. The study found a narrowed notion and incomplete understanding of what ‘sustainable water supply’ means in Puntland and it was identified as one of the bottlenecks from achieving its target successfully. The study also found out very low level of community participation, non-inclusive program for marginalized people as main challenges in achieving the targets of SDG 6. The study also identified theft and vandalism, limited financial and other resources, lack of clear policies and guidelines and low awareness, low level of community participation, limited suppliers and skilled technicians as the major barriers to achieving the targets of SDG 6. It was also identified that the need for building the capacity of government, NGO and water operators, improving the quality of solar system components, conducting research and studies, formulating clear policy and guidelines favoring solar energy and raising community awareness and participation as the main success factors for the successful implementation of solar powered water supply system.
The study also recommends similar future studies but with more inclusive data from water users, women and marginalized people not only from Puntland but also from other regions of the country through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions so as to make more generalized conclusions at national level.