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Gully Erosion and Sand Dune Control Projects

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Gully Erosion and Sand Dune Control Projects
Sand dunes pose a significant threat to Somalia, advancing inland at an alarming rate and endangering towns, infrastructure, and livelihoods. Rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and sea level rise exacerbate this phenomenon, accelerating the movement of sand. Trees and other vegetation act as natural barriers, reducing wind speeds and anchoring the soil. However, deforestation, overgrazing, and land mismanagement have left many areas exposed, making them increasingly vulnerable to sand dune encroachment.

Sand dune encroachment is a growing climate disaster affecting both coastal and inland regions of Somalia. The gradual advance of dunes into inhabited areas has led to displacement, destruction of homes, and loss of vital infrastructure. One notable example is Kulub village in Puntland, where advancing dunes have buried essential structures, including a school and a medical facility, forcing residents to abandon the area. Similar challenges are prevalent across coastal regions in Mudug, where desertification and shifting sands continue to threaten the environment and local livelihoods.

In addition to sand dune encroachment, gully erosion poses a significant environmental challenge in Somalia. Gully erosion is caused by water runoff that erodes soil along drainage lines, creating deep channels that worsen with time. It is estimated to affect 23–30% of Somalia's land area, leading to widespread land degradation and loss of valuable farmland. This phenomenon disproportionately impacts pastoral and agro-pastoral communities who depend on fertile land for their sustenance and economic activities.

In response to these critical environmental challenges, Somali Earth Volunteers (SEV) has implemented targeted campaigns and projects to combat both sand dune encroachment and gully erosion. Among SEV’s key initiatives are:

1. Tree Planting Campaigns
SEV has planted over 3,000 trees in areas heavily affected by sand dune movement, such as coastal towns in the Mudug region of Puntland. These trees serve as windbreaks, stabilizing the soil and curbing the movement of sand dunes. Native tree species, known for their resilience to arid conditions, have been prioritized to ensure long-term sustainability.
2. Construction of Gabion Baskets
To control gully erosion, SEV has constructed more than 31 gabion baskets across regions like Sool, Sanaag, and Bari in Puntland. These structures stabilize soil and reduce the intensity of water runoff, preventing further erosion and enabling the regeneration of vegetation in affected areas.
3. Community Engagement and Education
SEV actively involves local communities in its projects, providing education on sustainable land use practices and the importance of environmental conservation. Training programs empower residents to maintain and expand tree planting efforts and protect existing vegetation.
4. Research and Monitoring
SEV collaborates with environmental experts to monitor changes in sand dune movement and erosion patterns. This data-driven approach ensures that interventions are strategically targeted and effective.

5. Pilot Projects for Vegetation Regeneration
In collaboration with international partners, SEV is exploring innovative techniques like aerial seeding and the use of drought-resistant crops to restore vegetation in degraded areas.

Broader Impacts

These initiatives aim to mitigate the impacts of climate change, protect vulnerable communities, and preserve Somalia’s natural resources. By addressing the root causes of sand dune encroachment and gully erosion, SEV contributes to enhancing food security, reducing displacement, and fostering climate resilience in one of the world's most vulnerable regions.

To expand the impact of these efforts, additional resources, partnerships, and policy support are required. The Somali government, local stakeholders, and international organizations must work collaboratively to scale up successful interventions, strengthen environmental governance, and promote sustainable development practices.

This multi-pronged approach will not only protect Somalia’s environment but also secure the livelihoods and well-being of its people for generations to come.

Fighting For Planet

If the current rate of deforestation continues, it will take less than 100 years to destroy all the rainforests on the earth.
1000
Acres Of Forests
1000
Millions People
10+
Project Completed
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