National Irrigation Policy May, 2019.

The Somali National Irrigation Policy aims to contribute to sustainable national economic growth and food security by enhancing irrigated agricultural production and productivity across Somalia. Its primary objective is to establish an efficient, sustainable, and well‑regulated irrigation sector that supports the transformation of agriculture from traditional subsistence systems to modern, commercial, and competitive production. The Policy addresses long‑standing challenges such as deteriorated irrigation infrastructure, inefficient water use, institutional weaknesses, and unregulated irrigation practices, particularly in the Shabelle and Juba river basins, which are critical to national food production and rural livelihoods. More specifically, the Policy seeks to strengthen institutional and organizational capacity at national and state levels; rehabilitate and expand irrigation infrastructure; promote sustainable irrigation development and management; and improve irrigation research, data collection, and information systems. It emphasizes water‑use efficiency, modern and cost‑effective irrigation technologies, equitable access to water, and active participation of communities and the private sector. Through gradual reforms, capacity building, and integrated water resource management, the Policy aims to reduce water‑related conflicts, increase resilience to droughts and floods, improve agricultural water management, and ensure the long‑term sustainability of irrigated agriculture in Somalia