Assessing the Impact of Water Scarcity on Agriculture Productivity: A Case Study of Gabiley District, Somalia

Abstract Apparently Gabiley District undergoes water crisis where the demand of water outstrips the available water. This has resulted in number of consequences in various aspects in the life of the people, but most importantly hindering their agricultural productivity despite the agriculture contributes 70% of the economy of the county as the people predominantly graze animals (goat, sheep, camel, cattle). However, the major purpose of this study was to examine the Impact of prevailing water crisis in Gabiley has had on Agricultural productions in Gabiley District Somalia. The study assessed the major factors that are responsible water scarcity; and the adaptation measures that people are currently resorting to acclimatize with growing water menace. Both Quantitative and qualitative data analysis were used in the study to analyze different primary data obtained from the field and from the Ministry of Agriculture particularly rainfall distributions data and cereal production trends. Pearson Coefficient Correlation was employed to determine whether there is significant relationship between water shortage particularly precariousness of rainfall performance and crop yields. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and Maize (Zea mays) were selected as benchmark crops due to availability of statistical data trends. Rainfall data for the last 10 years was obtained from there is strong, positive significant correlation between rainfall variability and Produced yields in Gabiley over the last 7years (2010-2016), (r=0.53, and p=0.05). The study finds rainfall distribution in Gabiley District that in turn results in frequent droughts as critical factor that affects water availability in Gabiley District. Disparity of water supply, local climate change, poor harvesting of rainwater, and overstocking are all found as important factors that cause water scarcity in Gabiley District, and it has resulted in reduction of surface water, changes of water table, as well as changes of quality and quantity of yields and formation of hardpans in the soil. Meanwhile, the study has found important adaptation measures being used in the area by local people to acclimatize with prevailing water crisis in Gabiley. This study emphasizes bold measures against prevailing micro-climatic changes in the study area, halt deforestation, regulate on climate and efficiently utilize rainwater, and provide water governance policies and rights to ensure the harmonization of different needs on water resources. These measures will complement to one another, and ultimately counteract the severe water shortage in Gabiley District, Somalia.