Water resources management: A case of the study on droughts and floods in Shabelle regions, Somalia

The management of water resources is becoming increasingly significant on a global scale, particularly in regions highly vulnerable to climate variability. Today, the impacts of climate change are felt not only in natural systems but also within social and economic structures, making the adoption of more sustainable water management approaches imperative. Somalia's Shabelle regions, which rely heavily on seasonal rainfall and the Shabelle River for agriculture, livestock, and essential human needs, are especially susceptible to droughts and floods. However, this vulnerability can also be transformed into an opportunity to enhance the resilience of local communities, promote efficient resource use, and foster effective solutions during crises. This study focuses on the districts of Jowhar, Afgooye, Awdhigle, and Balcad, providing a detailed analysis of the impacts of droughts and floods in the region. To evaluate the intensity and effects of these events over time, the study adopts a mixed-methods approach that combines survey analyses with the temporal trends derived from the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) based on historical rainfall data. The methodology includes three distinct surveys. The first, developed by the researcher, aims to assess the demographic characteristics of the local population and their perceptions of floods, droughts, and water management in general. The second survey, meticulously designed using a question inventory selected from the literature, addresses key issues requiring prioritization in water management. The third survey incorporates insights from the increasingly popular AI-powered ChatGPT application, focusing on considerations critical for addressing floods and droughts in the Shabelle region. The integration of data from these three surveys and SPI trend analysis provides comprehensive insights into the region's water resources and the disasters it faces. The findings reveal a marked increase in the frequency and severity of drought events, particularly since the year 2000. This escalation has led to significant challenges such as worsening water scarcity, reduced agricultural productivity, and heightened food insecurity. Nonetheless, these challenges can serve as a turning point for fostering resilience among local communities. By encouraging greater community participation, promoting inclusive policies, and leveraging innovative technologies, sustainable solutions can be developed to address these pressing issues. These efforts not only respond to current crises but also lay the foundation for a more resilient future.