KEEPS

Construction Of Earth Dams In Dacarta And Idhanka

Clients

Save The Children International

Services

Construction

Location

Dacarta and Idhanka – Somaliland

Project Overview

The project involved implementing two pre-designed large-scale earth dams in the semi-arid areas of Dacarta and Idhanka, following the provided technical designs and specifications. Work included site preparation, excavation of dam basins, construction of compacted embankments, and installation of spillways, outlets, and livestock watering points.

Quality control and standard construction practices ensured durable, safe structures. Geomembrane liners were installed to reduce seepage, and complementary infrastructure such as solar-powered water pumps, elevated tanks, animal troughs, and water kiosks was provided to enhance functionality and community access.

The construction team consisted of three civil engineers and around 12 skilled workers who applied modern engineering techniques throughout the project. The dams are now fully operational, providing vital water storage for domestic and livestock use.

Technologies Used:

Layered compaction - KEEPS Sanitation and Construction

Layered compaction

Geomembrane Liners - KEEPS Sanitation and Construction

Geomembrane Liners

Solar-Powered Water Pumps - KEEPS Sanitation and Construction

Solar-Powered Water Pumps

Auxiliaries structures - KEEPS Sanitation and Construction

Auxiliaries structures

Site stabilization - KEEPS Sanitation and Construction

Site stabilization

Care Excavation - KEEPS Sanitation and Construction

Care Excavation

Spillway integration - KEEPS Sanitation and Construction

Spillways and Silt Traps

Equipment Deployed:

Outcome & Delivery

Both dams were constructed to full capacity, with site finishing and protective berms completed on schedule. Structural assessments confirmed compliance with safety and hydrological requirements.

These earth dams have since played a significant role in enhancing access to water in previously underserved areas, reducing seasonal water stress, and supporting sustainable pastoralism. The project demonstrates KEEPS strength in terrain-responsive engineering and delivering essential water harvesting infrastructure in remote locations.