Construction Of One Haffir Dam In Farawayne
Clients
African Development Bank Through CARE & Mowd
Services
Construction
Location
Farawayne District Marodijeh
Project Overview
We implemented the construction of the Farawayne Haffir Dam to improve rainwater harvesting and water access for rural and pastoralist communities in one of Somaliland’s drought-affected regions. The implementation was carried out in strict accordance with the pre-approved designs, technical drawings, and specifications provided by the responsible authorities.
Site Preparation and Earthworks
We began with comprehensive site preparation, including geotechnical mapping, land grading, and the establishment of cut-and-fill zones. Our team executed the excavation of the reservoir basin and construction of embankments, ensuring proper shaping and compaction. These operations were guided by GPS and RTK surveying equipment to maintain alignment with design parameters and ensure long-term structural integrity.
Stabilization and Spillway Installation
We constructed a spillway system to safely divert overflow and reduce the risk of structural erosion. The embankments were stabilized through a combination of compacted earth shoulders, vegetative cover, and targeted erosion control measures tailored to the silty local subsoil conditions.
Auxiliary Infrastructure
In addition to the main dam structure, we implemented the following auxiliary systems to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and community benefit:
- A slow sand filter treatment system to improve water quality.
- An underground water storage tank to hold treated water for longer-term use.
- Animal troughs and a water kiosk for organized and inclusive water access.
- A solar energy system powers a submersible water pump for sustainable water lifting and distribution.
- Full perimeter fencing to protect the dam site from external disturbances and ensure user safety.
Personnel and Equipment
The implementation was carried out by a dedicated team consisting of two civil and Water engineers and eighteen (18) general and skilled workers, including local labor. We deployed and rotated essential heavy machinery, excavators, bulldozers, compactors, water tankers, and service vehicles to align with each phase of work, ensuring efficiency and adherence to schedule.
All construction activities were executed to meet the required engineering, environmental, and safety standards, resulting in a fully functional haffir dam now supporting water resilience and community well-being in Farawayne.
Technologies Used:
RTK GPS Surveying and Positioning
Standard Proctor Compaction Test Apparatus
Dynamic Cone Penetrometer
Atterberg Limits Test
Cut-and-Fill Balancing Techniques
Compaction and Soil Stabilization Techniques
Concrete Reinforcement and Formwork Systems
Manual and Mechanical Concrete Vibrators
Vegetative Erosion Control Methods
Slow Sand Filtration Systems
Solar-Powered Water Pumps
Solar & Pumps Remote Monitoring Systems
Earth Moisture Meters
Underground Piping and Distribution Systems
riprap Installation
Equipment Deployed:
Outcome & Delivery
The Farawayne Haffir Dam was completed on schedule and successfully commissioned for community use by the end of the rainy season. Designed with an effective catchment area and built on a solid structural foundation, the dam now serves as a vital resource for drought mitigation, providing reliable water storage that supports livestock hydration and agricultural activities throughout dry periods.
This project highlights our ability to deliver tailored and resilient dam infrastructure by leveraging efficient team coordination, modern construction technologies, and adaptable methods. Despite the challenges posed by the variable terrain and local soil conditions, we ensured the dam’s long-term stability and functionality, ultimately enhancing water security and improving livelihoods for the surrounding communities.