Published in October 2024

Living in a harsh dryland region with water scarcity and food shortages is challenging in itself. Add to that a physical disability, and the challenge to support one's family could become overwhelming. However, thanks to a sand dam project, and support from our local partner, Ethiopian farmer Roro is finding a way not only to survive, but for he and his family to thrive.

Roro Ala, a 52-year-old head of his household, lives in Baana Village, Alteargude Kebele (sub-district) in southern Ethiopia, with his wife and two sons. As a person with a disability, Roro faced numerous challenges before the sand dam project. Unlike his neighbours who relied on livestock, Roro had no animals and depended solely on farming a small plot of land, often at the mercy of unpredictable seasons and recurrent droughts. 

Collecting water was an enormous daily challenge for Roro. "During the dry seasons, most water sources, even the river water sources would dry out, and we had to walk over long distances in the rugged terrain to reach another water source... As a disabled person, travelling long distances, over two hours, to fetch water was exhausting and dangerous," Roro recalls.  He adds: "We had to wait in line for a long time at the water point, and sometimes we would return home with just a few jars of water after hours of waiting." 

The water sources he could find were often unprotected, leading to frequent waterborne diseases in the community. Waterborne illnesses were common. "We often got sick, and the illnesses would last for many weeks," Roro remembers. "This would leave us weak and unable to work." The lack of water also limited his ability to farm effectively and led to conflicts within the community and with neighbouring villages. He says: "There were frequent fights over water, especially water for livestock. People from different villages would even come to fight over this scarce resource." 

This all changed when Sand Dams Worldwide, in partnership with Action for Development (AFD), introduced a sand dam in his village. The project provided not only clean, reliable water but also peace and stability.

"Now, water is near our village, and many people can access it in a short time. The fights over water have stopped... Access to clean water has changed everything." 

Roro Ala, member of Baana Village, southern Ethiopia.

The introduction of the sand dam has significantly improved life for Roro and his community. "The project has reduced conflicts over water," Roro says. "With clean water nearby, there is less tension, and our community has come together to maintain the sand dam and ensure everyone has access." 

In addition to access to water, Roro received training in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) and sustainable agricultural practices.

"Thanks to the training received, we learned how to keep our water clean and how to grow various fruits like papaya, banana, mango, and avocado... This knowledge has really transformed my life." 

With the skills he gained from the training, Roro began farming more productively. He earned 6,000 Ethiopian birrs (about £38) by engaging himself during sand dam construction and used the income to buy a female goat, invest in his children's education, and plan for further income diversification. "This project gave me the confidence to start rearing livestock," Roro says. "Now, I envision expanding my farm and increasing my income."

For Roro, the sand dam project has not only improved his livelihood but has also brought hope. "Before the project, I was fully dependent on farming, with no livestock, and uncertain of the future," Roro reflects. "Now, I have a female goat, my sons have the education materials they need, and we have enough food and water."

The sand dam has also transformed the environment. "The land around us is greener, and we’re no longer suffering during drought periods. Our livestock are healthier, and the crops we grow provide both food and income," Roro says proudly.

Roro is particularly proud of the achievements his community has made together. "Our greatest accomplishment is transforming our land and reducing conflict," he says. "We’ve planted trees and crops, and the sand dam has brought us together. We’ve overcome so many challenges by working together."

On a personal level, Roro’s greatest achievement is improving his family’s wellbeing. "I’m most proud of being able to provide for my children and improve income from my farm," he says. "Our household health has got better because of the clean water."

With the success of the sand dam project, Roro sees a brighter future for his family and community. "My children are healthier, and they don’t have to walk long distances for water. We’re able to grow nutritious food, and I’m planning to diversify my income further by raising more livestock."

When asked how he feels about the project, Roro’s face lights up. "I’m so grateful to Sand Dams Worldwide and AFD for supporting vulnerable communities like ours. This project has transformed our lives, and we now have hope for the future. I’m excited to see what we can achieve next as a community."

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