Somali Army Delivers Water to Drought-Hit Civilians in Lower Shabelle

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MARKA: Somalia’s National Armed Forces have launched daily water deliveries to civilians in Dhanaane, near Marka, as part of an emergency relief effort in the drought-affected Lower Shabelle region.

Troops operating from forward positions in Jazeera are deploying water tankers to supply families facing acute shortages after local infrastructure was damaged during fighting with Al-Shabaab.

Military commanders said the operation is a priority, aimed at supporting communities recovering from militant control and ensuring access to basic needs alongside ongoing security operations.

Residents said the destruction of wells and essential facilities has left many unable to access or afford clean water, with some calling for longer-term government intervention.

The relief effort highlights the army’s role beyond combat, as it seeks to stabilise liberated areas and support civilian populations.

Local communities have urged the government to move from emergency aid to sustainable solutions, including drilling boreholes and rebuilding essential services.