United Nations in Yemen

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Press Release

03 December 2023

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

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Press Release

02 December 2023

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ABOLITION OF SLAVERY

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Press Release

02 December 2023

UNDP Yemen: Climate change projections detail detrimental effects on human development in Yemen: UNDP Report

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Latest

Press Release

03 December 2023

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

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Press Release

02 December 2023

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ABOLITION OF SLAVERY

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Press Release

02 December 2023

UNDP Yemen: Climate change projections detail detrimental effects on human development in Yemen: UNDP Report

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The Sustainable Development Goals in Yemen

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Yemen:

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Publication

19 April 2023

UN YEMEN COUNTRY RESULTS REPORT 2022

Yemen has been embroiled in an eight-yearlong armed conflict that has resulted in increased economic turmoil, human displacement, infrastructure damage, and widespread suffering.
By the end of the year, more than two-thirds of Yemen’s population (21.6 million people, including 12.9 million children) required humanitarian assistance, whilst an estimated 4.5 million people, including 2 million children - 14% of the population, were internally displaced.
The conflict has divided the country, exacerbated poverty, crippled the economy, destroyed critical infrastructure and livelihoods, and weakened the population’s and institutions’ resilience and capacities. More than USD 25 billion would be required for recovery and reconstruction.
The governance system is weak and fragmented, with tense central-subnational relations and competing policies. Political bureaucracy and interference by conflict parties hampered UN operations on the ground, causing costly delays, increasing the risk of security threats to staff and implementing partners, and limiting female staff mobility.
Citizens’ trust in institutions was eroded, resulting in macroeconomic instability and suboptimal service delivery, which exacerbated the conditions of the most vulnerable groups.
The crisis has had a particularly negative impact on progress towards the 2030 Agenda, with both humanitarian and development needs increasing, making it difficult to prioritise programming strategies and secure critical funds. Yemen is ranked 183 out of 191 countries in the Human Development Index with a score of 0.455 in 2021/2022.

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Press Release

26 May 2023

Joint News Release: Conflict and economic crisis drive food insecurity and malnutrition in Yemen

In a new Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) analysis on Yemen released today, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the UN World Food Programme (WFP) warned that, despite the slight improvements, nearly all districts under the control of the GoY were assessed to be facing high levels of food insecurity. Yemen remains one of the most food insecure countries globally, mainly driven by the impact of conflict and economic decline, the three UN agencies added. The report shows that Yemen continues to require attention, with hunger stalking millions of people and the situation could worsen if nothing is done to address the key drivers of food insecurity in the Middle Eastern country. Despite modest improvements, second half of 2023 needs more investment Today’s report showed that between January and May 2023, about 3.2 million people experienced high levels of acute food insecurity in the GoY areas, and these are classified in severe food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 and above), representing a 23 percent reduction from the October – December 2022 estimates. Additionally, the number of people in Emergency (IPC Phase 4) almost halved to 781,000 compared to the estimates for the last quarter of 2022. The three UN agencies warned that these modest improvements were only a ‘temporary reprieve’ as the key drivers of food insecurity remain and are projected to worsen during the period June to December 2023. The IPC report projected a 20 percent increase in the number of people facing IPC Phase 3 and above (638,500 additional people) during the June to December period. The number of people likely to experience high levels of acute food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 or worse) is estimated to increase to 3.9 million (41 percent), out of which 2.8 million people are estimated to be in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) and 1.1 million in Emergency (IPC Phase 4). The situation is likely to be compounded by a 20 percent decrease in humanitarian food assistance levels and the anticipated increase in food prices. While there has been a relative calm, sporadic fighting may continue in the frontline districts which further impacts food security. Children and pregnant and lactating mothers facing acute malnutrition As acute malnutrition continues to worsen in southern governorates, it is estimated that in 2023, half a million children will be acutely malnourished, including nearly 100,000 children who are likely to be severely malnourished. It is also estimated that up to a quarter million pregnant and lactating women (PLW) will be acutely malnourished, while child stunting levels are also very high, ranging from 35.9 percent in Abyan Lowland to 64.3 percent in Hodeida Southern Lowland. Critical situations of acute malnutrition (IPC AMN Phase 4) persist in some parts of the southern areas. The area-level classification is expected to deteriorate further during the projection period for acute malnutrition with all 16 zones of southern governorates being classified in IPC AMN phases 3 (Serious) and above, including seven zones in IPC AMN Phase 4 (Critical). David Gressly, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen, said: “The United Nations and its partners made strides in rolling back the worst food insecurity last year, but these gains remain fragile and 17 million people are still food insecure in Yemen. We thank generous donors for commitments made so far but need further support to reach the level of funding received last year to sustain an integrated humanitarian response. With adequate resources, we will reach millions of Yemenis with critical food and nutrition support, clean water, basic health care, protection and other necessities, while building people’s resilience and preparing communities across the country to withstand future shocks.” “FAO is seized with this situation, and we are working directly with farmers on the ground to enable them to maintain their livelihoods. We make sure that smallholder farmers in Yemen will withstand any shocks which impact food security. As such, our focus, through various interventions, is to improve household food security and income by strengthening agricultural production practices, increasing labour opportunities, and diversifying livelihoods in a sustainable way that fosters peaceful coexistence,” said FAO Yemen Representative, Dr. Hussein Gadain. UNICEF and partners reached about 420,000 children suffering from severe and acute malnutrition with lifesaving interventions in 2022., This is the highest ever reached in Yemen, thanks to the scale up of nutrition services in 4700 PHC facilities. Despite this, malnutrition levels remain critical in many areas of the Southern Governorates. A multi sectoral approach to address all forms of malnutrition is essential and together with partners UNICEF is strengthening the provision of primary health care, including early detection and treatment of severe acute malnutrition”, said UNICEF Yemen Representative, Peter Hawkins. “WFP’s assistance is critical for getting people to firmer ground, for averting crisis and famine, for a better future, and we urge our donors to renew their commitment to supporting the most vulnerable Yemenis. Yemen's food insecurity situation remains fragile, and the hard-won gains of the past 12 months will be lost without continued and urgent support from our donors. There are women, men and children behind these IPC statistics, whose lives straddle the fine line between hope and utter devastation. We simply cannot take our foot off the gas now,” said WFP Country Director, Richard Ragan. ##### Notes for editors: About FAO: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Our goal is to achieve food security for all and make sure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With over 194 members, FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide. About UNICEF: United Nations Children's Fund works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. About WFP: The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

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Press Release

04 May 2023

Statement: Remarks at the pledging event for the FSO Safer operation co-hosted by the Netherlands and the United Kingdom

First, I want echo Achim’s thank you to the United Kingdom and the Netherlands for having organized this event. And for contributing generously. A third element that they both deserve credit for is recognizing early on the promise of a private-sector initiative to address the Safer which the Fahem Group and SMIT Salvage proposed in mid-2021 – a time when the previous UN plan to inspect the Safer was not moving. The initiative called for a leading maritime salvage company to transfer the oil off the Safer and replace the decaying supertanker’s capacity. That was the basis upon which the United Nations principals asked me to lead and coordinate UN system-wide efforts on the Safer, in September 2021. In December 2021, United Nations senior management endorsed the UN-coordinated plan and asked UNDP to implement it, contingent upon donor funding. In February 2021, I met with the Government of Yemen in Aden, which confirmed its support for the plan. They have remained supportive ever since – as evidenced by a $5 million pledge that they made last year. The Sana’a authorities had been favorable to the original initiative, but insisted that it be done under UN auspices. In March 2022, they signed a memorandum of understanding with the UN that committed them to facilitating the operation. A commitment that they continue to honor. The agreement was also signed by myself with the Fahem Group, which has supported engagement in Sana’a on the initiative since 2021 on a voluntary basis. By April 2022, the UN presented a draft operational plan to begin fundraising. The original budget for phase 1 and 2 was $144 million. As Achim said, the Netherlands pledging event in The Hague last May brought in $33 million, which was a catalyst to move us to where we are today. But finding funds to prevent a catastrophe proved far more difficult than finding money for a disaster. In June, we launched a public crowdfunding campaign for the operation. That has now brought in more than $250,000. More importantly, it captured media attention that galvanized further support for the plan. In August, we received the first pledge from a private entity. $1.2 million from the HSA Group. The International Association of Oil and Gas Producers followed with a $10 million pledge and Trafigura Foundation with $1 million. The private sector, we learned, was concerned about its liability linked to a contribution. UNDP, in particular, led the effort to resolve those issues of concern which gives us a basis for further private sector contributions. By September last year, the UN met the target of $75 million to start the operation. Unfortunately, even as UNDP was gearing up to begin, the cost of suitable replacement vessels surged, chiefly due to developments related to the war in Ukraine. More money was also needed to start the initial phase because of the necessity to purchase a replacement vessel – also linked to the war in Ukraine as suitable vessels for lease were no longer available. The budget for the emergency phase – during which the oil will be transferred – is now $129 million. Most of the funding is now required up front in phase one. Now, the second phase only requires $19 million to complete the project. So, the budget of $148 million is just $4 million more than was presented to donors a year ago. Prior to today’s announcements, we had raised $99.6 million from member states, the private sector and the general public. The general public has provided donations from $1 to $5,000. The broad coalition working to prevent the catastrophe also includes environmental groups like Greenpeace and, in Yemen, Holm Akhdar. Every part of the United Nations is involved, including the International Maritime Organization, the UN Environmental Progamme, and the World Food Progamme. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is among those that have worked on the Safer file for years and has now ensured $20 million of bridging finance. That would need to be replenished by donor funding. I also want to recognize the United States for playing a tireless role in mobilizing resources. It is among the top five donors, together with the Netherlands, Germany, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom. On 9 March, UNDP’s Administrator took the bold decision to purchase the replacement vessel Nautica – before all of the operation was in place. That is because UNDP recognized the extraordinary problem and understood that the cost of inaction is too great, as Achim outlined. UNDP also contracted the Boskalis subsidiary SMIT Salvage, which played an enormously helpful role in developing the UN plan long before it had a contract. With both the Nautica and the SMIT vessel Ndeavor en route to Djibouti, we expect the operation to start before the end of the month. Therefore, I thank all donors for the generous support, and we look forward to further generous support. But the risk of disaster remains. I am forever thankful to the heroic skeleton crew aboard the Safer that continues to do all it can to keep that vessel together until we can organize this salvage operation. None of us will heave a sigh of relief until the oil is transferred. And we will all heave a final sigh of relief when the critical second phase is completed. This requires that the project is fully funded as described. As everyone has said we are just one step away so lets take the final step. Thank you.

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Publication

26 October 2022

UNITED NATIONS YEMEN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION FRAMEWORK 2022 – 2024

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
UN global reform has elevated the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) to be “the most important instrument for planning and implementing UN development activities” in the country. It outlines the UN development system’s contributions to reach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in an integrated way, with a commitment to leave no one behind, uphold human rights, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE), and other international standards and obligations. The UNSDCF seeks to address the humanitarian, development and peace challenges in Yemen in an environment where key public institutions are fragmented, no national strategy exists, and where there has been no national budget since 2014. The Yemen UNSDCF outlines the UN’s collective priorities and development objectives to be reached jointly in the next three years 2022-2024 as part of an ongoing and longer- term vision for resilience building and forging of a pathway to peace.
Yemen is a country in conflict. The priorities of this UNSDCF are derived from the analysis of the impacts of this ongoing crisis on the people of Yemen, and the needs and opportunities as outlined in the UN’s Common Country Analysis (CCA) conducted in 2021.
The UN has prioritized four pillars that resonate with the SDG priorities of people, peace, planet and prosperity that aim, as a matter of urgency, to improve people’s lives in Yemen and build resilience that is equitable, inclusive, people-centred, gender responsive and human rights based, through outcomes that: 1. Increase food security, improving livelihood options, and job creation 2. Preserve inclusive, effective and efficient national and local development systems strengthening 3. Drive inclusive economic structural transformation 4. Build social services, social protection, and inclusion for all
The theory of change is driven by an expectation that by 2024 the impact for all people of all ages in Yemen affected by conflict, forced displacement and living in poverty in all its dimensions will experience change in the quality of their lives. This will be possible through increased food security and nutrition, livelihood options and job creation; preserved national and local development and systems strengthening; inclusive economic structural transformation and the building of social services, social protection and inclusion for all. Food security and nutrition, and sustainable and resilient livelihoods and environmental stability will be realized through effective food production and diversified food and nutrition security; and through sustainable climate sensitive environmental management. Rights-based good governance and inclusive gender sensitive improved public services and rule of law will be possible as a result of accountable, inclusive and transparent institutions and systems, as well as the building of trusted justice systems. Increased income security and decent work for women, youth and vulnerable populations will be realised through micro and macro-economic development and job creation. Strengthened social protection and basic social support service delivery focused on support to marginalized groups, and strengthening women and youth leadership in decision making processes will be supported through the preservation of social protection and expanded and effective social assistance and basic services.
The UNSDCF prioritises the population groups in Yemen that have the highest risk of being left behind due to the impact of conflict; economic, social, geographic or political exclusion; and marginalisation. Enacting the central transformative principle of the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, whilst challenging in the Yemen context, does provide the lens through which the UNSDCF targets the most vulnerable and prioritise Leaving No One Behind.
On the basis that some groups in Yemen bear the brunt of the conflict due to forced displacement, livelihood disruption, food insecurity, limited social safety nets, increased levels of poverty and poor-
quality housing, the CCA 2021 identifies the following population groups at the greatest risk of being left behind:
- Women and girls - 73 percent of those displaced in Yemen are women and girls, especially women of reproductive age and adolescent girls
- Children – 60 percent of those killed directly by conflict are children under five
- Youth and adolescents – an estimated 2 million school-age girls and boys are out of school as poverty, conflict, and lack of opportunities disrupt their education
- Internally displaced persons – more than 4 million IDPs with 172,000 newly displaced in 2020 and almost 160,000 in 2021
- Refugees, asylum seekers and migrants – Yemen hosts approximately 138,000 migrants and 140,000 refugees and asylum seekers
- Persons with disabilities – 4.5 million Yemenis have at least one disability
- Ethnic and religious minorities – It is estimated that Muhamasheen represent 10 percent of the population living in marginalised conditions
The UNSDCF is comprised of four chapters. Chapter One: explores Yemen’s progress towards the 2030 Agenda through a detailed analysis of the country context drawing on the 2021 CCA. Chapter Two: presents the theory of change generally and per outcome area. Chapter Three: outlines the UNSDCF’s implementation plan focused on the management structure, resources, links to country programming instruments and Yemen’s Business Operations Strategy. Chapter Four: highlights the process for CCA updates, Monitoring and Evaluation and Learning. The Results Framework presents the outcomes and key performance indicators for monitoring agreed targets utilizing verifiable data sets. Two annexes capture the legal basis for all UN entities engaged in the UNSDCF and the mandatory commitments to Harmonised Approaches to Cash Transfers (HACT)1.
The UNSDCF represents the UN’s understanding that continued engagement in Yemen requires an operational architecture under-pinned by the Business Operations Strategy (BOS) and an integrated set of achievable programming priorities. These two strategic approaches of the UN system strengthen and make more inclusive the country’s national and local governance structures, and mainstream the required responses to the economic and health consequences of COVID-19. They tackle food insecurity and nutrition as a matter of priority and integrate the promotion and advancement of gender equality and women’s and girl’s empowerment.

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Story

28 November 2023

IOM YEMEN: CROSSING DESERTS, DEFYING ODDS: A YOUNG MOTHER’S UNBROKEN SPIRIT PREVAILS

As a young girl growing up in Ethiopia, Samara*’s life took a harrowing turn when her parents got divorced. After her mother relocated to another village, Samara and her sister were placed under the care of their father and abusive stepmother. The divorce stripped their biological mother of any rights to her home, crops, and children, which led to a childhood filled with misery for Samara and her older sister. The never-ending physical abuse and hurtful words would soon became their everyday reality. “We were left at the mercy of our stepmother who treated us cruelly,” Samara says. “I used to cry myself to sleep, thinking about my mother and the peaceful life we once had.” Samara and her sister longed to escape from that toxic environment and reunite with their mother, but the mere thought only fuelled their stepmother’s aggression further. When Samara turned 16, she reached a breaking point and decided to take her sister and leave their home in search of a better life. To make ends meet, the two found jobs as housekeepers in a village not far from their village. One day, while Samara and her friend were sipping tea and discussing the challenges they faced finding work, a man approached them. “Do you want to make a lot of money?” Samara recalls him asking. “I can help you find work in Saudi Arabia and you won’t even have to pay me until you get there.” Initially reluctant, she felt reassured hearing other women share their positive experiences about travelling to Saudi Arabia. “Knowing that I wouldn’t have to make this journey alone made me feel safe.” Empowered by the prospect of a better future, Samara decided to try her luck. Her choice meant leaving her sister behind, but it was a risk she was willing to take. Three days later, the smuggler took Samara, her friend, and two other women to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital city. They spent two nights in a hotel before embarking on the next leg of their journey. Like Samara, many migrants venture into the unknown when they travel to Yemen, driven by the hope for a better life in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Their challenging journey begins with an overland trek through Ethiopia or Somalia, followed by a dangerous sea journey to Yemen’s western coast. Transferred from one smuggler to another, Samara ended up in a group of 30 people, including women, men, and unaccompanied children. The two-day trek through unforgiving terrain proved to be both a physical and emotional trial, but the sense of camaraderie that emerged within the group gave her strength to continue. “The desert was terribly cold and we were exhausted, but we kept going,” Samara recalls. Then, one night, as they rested, one of the smugglers separated Samara from the group, threatening to abandon her if she cried out for help. Other women in the group faced similar ordeals. They were later transported by boat to the city of Lahj in Yemen. From there, they were driven across the desert to the smuggler’s house where Samara and two other women found themselves in the hands of a different captor. Desperation set in as the smuggler demanded for money if they wished to continue their journey onwards to the Kingdom Saudi Arabia. Samara reached out to her family, hoping for support, but the response was bleak. Her father refused to assist, holding her responsible for her predicament. Her sister, though willing, was not able to meet the smuggler’s financial demands. After seven agonizing months, Samara discovered she was pregnant. By that time, the smuggler had sold her to another individual who transported her to the border between Yemen and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Her situation was growing dire by the day. Perhaps moved by a glimmer of humanity – she likes to think – another smuggler negotiated her release. Samara’s journey mirrors the struggles faced by countless migrants in Yemen. In the first nine months of 2023 alone, over 92,000 migrants had arrived in Yemen, already surpassing last year’s figures. These migrants, reaching over 200,000, along with 100,000 refugees and asylum seekers, grapple with dire conditions and face heightened risks of human rights abuses. IOM provides direct protection assistance and protection case management and referrals for migrants and Yemenis who are at protection risks – including survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and victims of trafficking. In 2022, IOM supported over 9,700 people in Yemen with dedicated protection case management and referral support. Upon finally regaining her freedom, Samara found herself in Sa'dah governorate in Yemen, where she met people who offered help. They accompanied her and other migrants back to Lahj, from where she made her way to Aden. Once there, Samara reached the Migrant Response Point (MRP) ran by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). When she arrived, IOM staff quickly recognized that she was in labour and rushed her to the hospital. Once she delivered the baby, she was transferred to IOM’s Community-Based Centre (CBC), a safe haven equipped with essential provisions and the necessary care for both herself and her newborn. “As soon as she was cleared by the doctors, we took her to the centre and gave her time to rest and care for her baby,” shares Zahra, an IOM Case Worker in Aden. “He was so small and frail, but from the moment she laid eyes on him, she embraced him as the most precious gift.” IOM’s humanitarian assistance and protection services in response to the needs of the returnees are aligned with the Regional Migrant Response Plan for the Horn of Africa and Yemen 2023, which aims to address the needs of migrants in vulnerable situations and host communities in countries situated along the Eastern Migration Route, located between the Horn of Africa and Yemen. In 2022, IOM has supported more than 75,000 migrants with humanitarian aid, offering shelter, healthcare, food, water, and protection services. IOM’s protection assistance through the MRPs and CBCs is supported by EU Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), the United States Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration (PRM) and the Government of Germany. *Name has been changed to protect identities

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Story

09 November 2023

UNICEF Yemen: Breaking the Cycle: UNICEF's Basic Literacy and Numeracy Programme Transforms Lives in Yemen

The protracted conflict that broke out in Yemen over eight years ago has destroyed the essential social and humanitarian institutions in the country, including the education system, which dealt a blow to children’s learning. Widespread displacement, lack of educational staff and resources, damage to school facilities, and general insecurity in the nation inevitably led to millions of Yemeni children either completely staying out of school or left without sustainable access to education. Rakan, a 10-year-old boy from Sana’a, is one of almost 3000 children in the Amanat Al Asimah, Yemen, who struggle with literacy and numeracy issues. Rakan is among the students who enrolled in the Basic Literacy and Numeracy Programme implemented by UNICEF with funding from The United States Government in the frame of the overall rehabilitation of the educational system in Yemen. "This programme aims to address the weakness of literacy and numeracy among the students,” says Hana Mohammed, a teacher at Al Gardai School in Sana’a, and one of the educators participating in the UNICEF Literacy and Numeracy Programme in Yemen. “Rakan was struggling with reading when he joined the programme,” she remembers. “It was hard for him to even distinguish letters and put them together into words.” The main concern about lost years of learning and gaps in literacy and numeracy among Yemen’s youth is that those issues can have far-reaching consequences on the future of children and youth. Rakan’s story is an illustration of those concerns. Orphaned at a very young age, the boy is raised by his grandmother, whose meager income can barely cover the family’s cost of living. Rakan grew up as a shy, insecure boy who struggled to make friends. His lack of education and inability to read and keep up with his classmates in math made it even more challenging for Rakan to continue his studies. Millions of Yemeni children are stuck in this vicious circle today, which often pushes them to dangerous alternatives such as exploitation, crime, and recruitment into the fighting. By implementing the education recovery programmes, UNICEF and its partners aim to hasten the day when the ongoing conflict will be settled and support Yemen in its further recovery. Rakan’s grandmother, who raised the boy and his brothers alone, saw the UNICEF Literacy and Numeracy Programme as a great opportunity for her grandson. “At first, Rakan didn't want to join this programme,” says his grandmother. “He was scared and shy because his academic level was so weak,” she explains. “The principal asked him to come just for two days before he made his final decision. And thank God, after those two days, Rakan was eager to continue his studies!” The Literacy and Numeracy programme is designed to help students feel comfortable and overcome their inhibitions in class. Rakan received a warm welcome from teachers who explained to students the importance of the programme and how they could benefit from it. “Like all the other students enrolled in the programme, Rakan took an Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) test, which allowed us to determine his level, place him in a proper group, and start improving his literacy and numeracy at a comfortable pace.” Hana Mohammed During his studies, Rakan took part in various activities with his classmates within the programme. They helped the previously introverted child build up his confidence and self-esteem and make new friends. Like other students enrolled in the programme, Rakan was assigned a supervisor who tracked the boy’s progress and encouraged him to continue his studies. “He is studying so hard now and does his homework all by himself!” “And what is most important, the boy looks very happy!” Rakan’s grandmother Two weeks after Rakan joined the Literacy and Numeracy Programme, his skills were evaluated again, and the supervisor noticed a remarkable improvement in the boy's development. “I joined this programme and now I can write and distinguish among letters and am able to create words. My handwriting has improved too.” Rakan Al Qadhi The boy who was struggling to talk to his classmates only a couple of weeks ago now has a conversation with the representative of the Ministry of Education, speaking about his progress and plans to continue education with pride and passion. UNICEF's Basic Literacy and Numeracy Programme is a lifeline for children like Rakan, offering them a chance to break free from the cycle of illiteracy and insecurity. The programme not only focuses on improving academic skills but also aims to boost students' confidence, self-esteem, and social interactions. It is heartening to see how Rakan's progress and newfound enthusiasm for learning have transformed his life and given him hope for a better future.

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07 November 2023

UNDP Yemen: Fully Solar Powered - UNDP Yemen Office Goes 100% Green!

Yemen remains one of the world's largest humanitarian crises, with the ongoing conflict negatively impacting peoples' access to basic services, including access to reliable electricity. For years, Yemen's citizens have struggled with ongoing electricity outages, affecting all aspects of life. Additionally, diesel - often used as an alternative to the power grid and accompanied by negative environmental impacts - has skyrocketed in price, leaving many without essential access to power. LEADING BY EXAMPLE The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) works across Yemen to support people and communities with solutions to this issue by providing solar power, hydropower, and other renewable energy solutions. With a large presence on the ground, it is vital that UNDP can continuously serve the Yemeni people, as well as set an example for preserving natural resources and leaving a light ecological footprint. In 2017, UNDP began exploring the available solutions for powering UNDP's Country Office, including other buildings in the Sana'a compound, with green energy. The process was not short, nor was it simple. For the Sana'a-based office, a six-year-long journey ended in September 2023, ultimately achieving a 100 percent solar powered office. AN IDEAL ENVIRONMENT FOR CLEAN ENERGY Yemen possesses the ideal geography, topography, and climate for a seamless transition to renewable energy. With over 2,000 kilometers of coastline, along with strong water current pressure in Bab Al-mandab Strait, there is tremendous opportunity to use turbine technology to produce clean energy. Across Yemen, there is an average of eight hours of nearly vertical sunshine, suitable for solar energy solutions. The tens of thousands of square kilometers of desert in eastern Yemen provide an ideal environment for both solar and thermal energy systems, as well wind turbine facilities. According to Ashraf, an engineer who worked on UNDP's Yemen Country Office solar project, "Yemen, and particularly Sana'a, is one of the places in the world that has both a good level of sunshine and unusually cool weather, which makes it very effective for the generation of solar power." Considering this, UNDP carried out a feasibility analysis and needs evaluation for the UNDP Yemen County Office in Sanaa. Colleagues across the world were consulted, and all agreed on the feasibility of a solar-powered office as the only practical and sustainable way forward. With a number of solar panels already in place in both Sana'a and Aden offices, UNDP made the decision to go completely 100 per cent solar powered in Sana'a. Construction soon began to install hundreds of solar panels above the UNDP Yemen staff parking lot, covering approximately 3,000 square meters, or six basketball courts. Not only does this solution provide power to the office, it also shelters vehicles from the hot sun, and decreases both air and noise pollution in the neighborhood. A DIFFICULT JOURNEY: ACCOMPLISHING THE IMPOSSIBLE Challenges began to arise when carrying out an operation of such magnitude in a country in conflict. Lengthy approvals and travel time for equipment to reach Yemen extended the project timeline and tested the patience of UNDP engineers. On numerous occasions, truckloads of equipment were turned around, and countless attempts were made before the successful arrival of all needed hardware. Additionally, local partners required capacity building to enhance their skills related to solar equipment installation. Online training courses were created from scratch and made available for implementing partners; this took time, however it ensured that all project partners were up to speed on the latest technology and ready to implement. When partners and engineers were unable to travel, they video-conferenced in, directing staff in Sana'a with installation. "I was apprehensive about how this will work out, given the challenges," admits Riyadh, an engineer who worked on the project. UNDP Headquarters supported with the first phase of the project in 2019, which included a battery-invertor solution with the ability to store 307 kilowatts (kWh) of power. Additionally, colleagues in Copenhagen helped with the procurement process for the various items needed. The newly installed system partially met the office's daily energy needs with its 100 kW of power capacity, sufficient to run the critical load. As soon as the lights came on, Riyadh gasped in delight—his months of study, labor, and patience had paid off. "Wow, it appears that everything is in order," he exclaimed. "I am overjoyed with this achievement." Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. STARTING OVER AFTER COVID-19 In August 2021, following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, a qualified internal UNDP team determined the primary components required to finalize the solar project. A steel mounting structure was designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including strong winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, ensuring the elevation and optimal positioning of the solar panel farm to maximize sun exposure. Additionally, metal reflectors were erected on top of the structure, beneath the solar panels, to capitalize on the double-sided technology of the solar panels. This technology enhances panel efficiency by approximately 15%. The control and battery room were strategically constructed above the generator room, making optimal use of the limited space. THE MOMENT OF TRUTH Following a long journey and several delays, the final piece, the battery bank, arrived in August 2023. Following installation, it was announced on September 10, 2023 that the new system was completed and powering the office with 100% solar energy. EXTRAORDINARY BENEFITS The expected financial benefit for the first ten years of the project's operational life is around US $3 million. After five years, a return of investment will be achieved. The project also enhances community safety by keeping the area surrounding the office lit during night hours. By saving over 36 thousand gallons of diesel per year, the system will contribute to the reduction of more than 150 metric tons of CO2 emissions. UNDP Sana'a's new solar-powered office contributes to five sustainable development goals, spotlighting an extraordinary achievement, finished despite a complex environment and multiple challenges. SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy SDG 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure SDG 11: Sustainable cities and communities SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production SDG 13: Climate action

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04 November 2023

UNDP Yemen: SAMIA: AN EMPOWERED AND RESILIENT RURAL YEMENI WOMAN

In the heart of Yemen, in Lahj Governorate's Beer Jaber Village, Samia, a 47-year-old woman, is a beacon of hope and resilience for rural women striving to build a better life for themselves and their families. Close to International Day of Rural Women, we celebrate Samia's journey to success with assistance from the ERRY Joint Programme, with the United Nations Development Programme’s support with solar panel installation and FAO's involvement in providing Samia with dairy equipment and training on dairy production and livestock rearing. Thanks to generous funding from the European Union and the Government of Sweden, Samia's story reflects not only her personal resilience but also the transformative power of collaboration and support in empowering rural women to build better lives for themselves and their communities. "I’m deeply attached to the farm, livestock, and land," Samia declares. "I want it to thrive, not decline. The farm means the world to me." LIVESTOCK AS LIVELIHOOD FOR YEMENI WOMEN In rural Yemen, livestock is not just a source of food but also a means of generating income. Samia, and many women like her, have learned the art of animal husbandry, from rearing livestock to ensuring they are ready for market. The skills they acquire not only put food on the table but also strengthen their resilience in the face of adversity. "We wake up every morning with a shared purpose – to overcome challenges and make a better life for our family. The livestock business has taught us not just how to raise animals, but how to rise above our circumstances,” shares Samia. Samia’s connection to rural life in Yemen runs deep, starting at a young age. "I have been working in this profession since I was fourteen years old," she proudly recalls. However, the journey wasn't without heartbreak. "I had my father and mother by my side, and then they passed away. My older brothers passed away, too." But adversity has never deterred Samia’s resolve. "I am often asked why I work so hard and exhaust myself," she shares, "I grew fond of raising livestock and became attached to the animals. I have a deep emotional attachment to them." DAIRY DELIGHTS: SAMIA’S JOURNEY TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP Samia’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish a dairy center, where she processes various dairy products using raw materials from her own farm. From creamy yogurt to rich butter, Samia’s dairy products have become a staple in her village. She didn't stop at mastering dairy production; she also honed her business skills, learning about marketing, supply chain management, and financial management. Today, Samia proudly boasts about her own dairy brand, "Al Taiseer," distributing her products to local marketplaces. "We sell yogurt, ghee, and laban. First, we do the milking. After pasteurizing it and allowing it to cool, we set it aside to solidify. Once the mixture has hardened, we store it inside the refrigerator. We shake it well the next morning. Our most popular product is 'laban,' which sells out daily. By 6:30 in the evening, Laban is completely gone from the refrigerator." Samia’s business success serves as a source of inspiration for many, and she emphasizes, "Our journey from dairy farming to dairy entrepreneurship was challenging, but it was worth every effort. We've learned that determination and the pursuit of knowledge can transform our lives." HARNESSING THE BEAUTY OF HENNA Henna, an integral part of Yemeni culture, is widely used in celebrations and special occasions, symbolizing good health, prosperity in marriage, and deep love between individuals. Samia recognized the potential of henna as a lucrative business opportunity. She embarked on a journey from planting Henna trees to producing high-quality henna paste. Her success has not only benefited her but has also inspired many women in Yemen to start their small henna businesses, contributing to the rich cultural heritage and local economy. "Henna is beautiful. Owning a business and earning an income is rewarding, even though it can sometimes feel exhausting,” says Samia. “I didn't give up and kept trying until I got it right. The art of Henna is not just about beauty; it's about preserving our traditions while building a better future." THE POWER OF SOLAR ENERGY In a nation facing the challenges of power shortages, Samia harnessed the power of the sun to produce her dairy and henna products. Solar energy has revolutionized her business, providing a reliable source of electricity in rural areas. This has significantly increased productivity and expanded her business operations. "Solar power activates at 8:30 AM when the sun rises, and I release water to irrigate the farmland. Solar energy has illuminated our path to a brighter future. It's not just about business; it's about sustainable development and the well-being of our community." SAMIA'S MESSAGE TO YEMENI RURAL WOMEN "My message on International Day of Rural Women is to encourage women to focus on their businesses and become self-sufficient and self-reliant in generating income. Despite the challenges that come my way, I'm still able to have multiple sources of income from different businesses that enable me to support my household. I am proud of my accomplishments." Samia’s inspiring journey demonstrates how UNDP Yemen’s ERRY Joint Programme empowers rural women in Yemen. With the generous support of the European Union and Government of Sweden, and collaborative efforts by the United Nations Development Programme, World Food Programme, Food and Agriculture Organization, and International Labor Organization, this initiative has not only changed individual lives but also contributes to enhancing the livelihoods and resilience of communities across Yemen. Inspirational women like Samia are shaping a brighter future for Yemen.

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31 October 2023

UNICEF Yemen: Community Health and Nutrition Volunteers (CHNV) in Lahj: Joint Efforts for Quality Services

Tuban District in Lahj Governorate faces numerous healthcare and nutrition challenges due to conflict and extreme poverty. Children and pregnant and breastfeeding women suffer from malnutrition as they often lack access to proper and balanced diet because of harsh economic conditions. "The conditions here are miserable. People are suffering; most of them have no income, and their nutrition is poor. We desperately need help", says Faisal Mohammed, a resident of Al-Khadad village, Tuban District, Lahj Governorate. Describing the dire situation in the district, he added, "My son works as a daily wage laborer, earning inconsistently.I was the main supporter for my family and the families of my sons. I used to work as the transportation manager at Ibn Khaldoun Hospital before I retired 3 months ago." Because of the family's worsening economic situation, his 9-month-old granddaughter Reemas started to show signs of severe malnutrition, continuous weight loss, fever, diarrhea, cough, and chills. In response to these circumstances, UNICEF - through its regular support programmes - continues to plant seeds of hope and provide humanitarian care through its Community Health and Nutrition Volunteers Project. Under this project, funded by the European Union, UNICEF intends to deliver high-quality basic nutrition and health services to malnourished children, pregnant and nursing mothers in Tuban District, Lahj Governorate. The goal is to improve the quality of life for children in the affected areas and contribute to sustainable development. This pioneer initiative brings together the expertise and dedication of over 251 volunteers who have been selected based on previous relevant experience to ensure professional and effective service delivery. These volunteers have already examined 1,025 children and 38 adolescents, provided nutrition services to 668 children and infants, and distributed 1,899 sachets of micronutrient powder. Fatima Ali Abdo Saeed, a health and community nutrition volunteer, has been serving in the Al-Khadad village in Tuban district of Lahij governorate for the past 5 years. She says that her job involves home visits to examine, measure, and weigh children in order to detect early signs of malnutrition and refer cases to health centers. She also examines and measures pregnant womenand breastfeeding mothers, provides them with folic acid, along with other necessary support and education. "Lovely Fatima - May God bless her - comes to our house every now and then. She regularly measures the weight of the children and educates us on how to breastfeed and take care of them." Lool Ali, the mother of baby girl Radhia The community volunteers play a crucial role in sharing information with families about basic health and nutrition issues, assess the condition of children through examinations and measurements, and then refer cases with malnutrition to health centers for treatment. Following the home visits and examinations conducted by the volunteers, the 28-month-old Radhia was diagnosed with malnutrition. "The little girl doesn't eat well; she consumes very little food. Sometimes she gets fever, and other times she has diarrhea. We rely on medication. When volunteer Fatima visited us, she examined and weighed Radhia, and it turned out she was underweight. Fatima referred her to the health center for treatment," Radhia's mother, Lool Ali, explains. Receiving referred cases, Dr. Arwa examines the cases, measures their weights, and monitors their growth. She also provides them with necessary treatment and follows up on their recovery. "The community health and nutrition volunteers came to my house and examined her. The measurement indicator was red, so they referred the case to the health center. While at the center, she was examined, and nutritional supplements were provided to her, "Faisal Mohammed, the grandfather of Remas, says. This project demonstrates the great value of volunteer work as part of humanitarian actions and initiatives implemented by UNICEF and its partners. It brings hope to the communities by building confidence to bring about positive change and create a better life and future for children in Yemen. “This assistance addressed the helplessness in the village, and without this support, most children would have been at risk." Faisal Mohammed, Reemas' grandfather The community health and nutrition volunteers are playing a pivotal role in providing and improving healthcare and nutrition services to local communities while contributing to enhancing health awareness. Fatima Ali, a community health and nutrition volunteer says, "Currently, there are no malnutrition-related deaths because we monitor the children on a monthly basis. Without such field visits, there would definitely be children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers at risk of death due to malnutrition". In this context, Dr. Arwa stresses the importance of what they do, saying, "I certainly make a difference in the lives of children by helping them overcome malnutrition and raising awareness among their mothers. Now we can see a significant improvement". "After Fatima came to us, my daughter is doing much better, thank God. The condition of my children and even my neighbors' children has improved. Our situation is now better. UNICEF's services are excellent. I am very satisfied with the quality of services rendered to us, and I hope they continue forever." Remas' mother Clear and positive results are being achieved in the daily lives of project beneficiaries. The health of children has improved, and necessary care and appropriate treatment have been provided. Faisal Mohammed says, "The assistance provided by UNICEF and its partners is very good, and children are improving more and more. We want to tell them that this is an excellent initiative, and we hope it to continue nonstop". Actually, this project is concrete proof of the strong commitment to improving healthcare and nutrition in the community, laying the foundation for a healthy and sustainable life for children, breastfeeding mothers, and pregnant women in Tuban District, Lahj Governorate.

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Press Release

02 December 2023

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities reminds us that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires living up to the promise to leave no one behind, especially the 1.3 billion persons with disabilities worldwide. Today, at the halfway point to the 2030 Agenda, persons with disabilities continue facing systemic discrimination and barriers that restrict their meaningful inclusion in all areas of society. Truly sustainable development for persons with disabilities requires a laser-like focus on their needs and rights — not only as beneficiaries, but as active contributors across social, economic and political life. This means ensuring that persons with disabilities are at every decision-making table, in line with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and across countries’ efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals — from poverty eradication, to health, education and climate action. The United Nations is leading by example through our Disability Inclusion Strategy, and by supporting Member States as they drive progress for, and with, persons with disabilities. On this important day, I call on the world to work side-by-side with persons with disabilities to design and deliver solutions based on equal rights in every country and community.

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Press Release

02 December 2023

UNDP Yemen: Climate change projections detail detrimental effects on human development in Yemen: UNDP Report

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Yemen has released a new report detailing Yemen’s likely climate future and how climate change could affect economic and human development in the long run. Yemen is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, and for decades has faced a worsening water crisis. Yet, like most low-income countries, Yemen has contributed little to the climate crisis. Climate change has no boundaries, and this report is a call for global action. The Impact of Climate Change on Human Development in Yemen analyses historical data on temperature and precipitation across regions and seasons and uses statistical techniques to forecast likely climate futures. It compares a likely climate change scenario to a counterfactual in which climate change does not occur. In a projected third scenario, key development interventions focused on building resilience to the threats posed by climate change are considered, accelerating progress towards better human development. The report projects an increase in malnutrition and poverty in Yemen if climate action to build resilience is not undertaken. With climate change, by 2060, it is projected that a cumulative $93 billion would be lost in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 3.8 million more people would suffer from malnutrition in Yemen.
“Today, climate change is not theoretical; we are already witnessing changing weather patterns in Yemen, and the worse is yet to come. With no action, it is projected that climate change will be responsible for over 121, 000 deaths in Yemen by 2060. UNDP’s new report outlines how a strategy to build resilience can help to mitigate the projected impacts of climate change in Yemen, to secure a decent future for the next generation in an already fragile context,” says UNDP Yemen Resident Representative Zena Ali Ahmad. Commissioned by UNDP in the beginning of 2023, The Impact of Climate Change on Human Development in Yemen is the product of a collaboration with the Frederick S. Pardee Center for International Futures, the Josef Korbel School of International Studies, the University of Denver, and Appalachian State University.
About UNDP: UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Learn more at https://www.undp.org/or follow at @UNDP. Press Contact
Miriam Pineau, Team Lead for Communications and Advocacy | Miriam.Pineau@undp.org
Abdulkareem Alsabri, Communications Officer | Abdulkareem.Alsabri@undp.org | +967-712222308

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Press Release

28 November 2023

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF SOLIDARITY WITH THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE

This International Day of Solidarity comes during one of the darkest chapters in the history of the Palestinian people. I am horrified by the death and destruction that have engulfed the region, which is overwhelmed with pain, anguish and heartache. Palestinians in Gaza are suffering a humanitarian catastrophe. Almost 1.7 million people have been forced from their homes – but nowhere is safe. Meanwhile, the situation in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, risks boiling over. I express my sincere condolences to the thousands of families who are mourning loved ones. This includes members of our own United Nations family killed in Gaza, representing the largest loss of personnel in the history of our organization. I have been clear in my condemnation of the terror attacks by Hamas on 7 October. But I have also been clear that they cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. Across the region, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency is an indispensable lifeline, delivering vital support to millions of Palestinian refugees. It is more important than ever that the international community stands with UNRWA as a source of support for the Palestinian people. Above all, this is a day for reaffirming international solidarity with the Palestinian people and their right to live in peace and dignity. That must start with a long-term humanitarian ceasefire, unrestricted access for lifesaving aid, the release of all hostages, the protection of civilians and an end to violations of international humanitarian law. We must be united in demanding an end to the occupation and the blockade of Gaza. It is long past time to move in a determined, irreversible way towards a two-State solution, on the basis of United Nations resolutions and international law, with Israel and Palestine living side-by-side in peace and security with Jerusalem as the capital of both States. The United Nations will not waver in its commitment to the Palestinian people. Today and every day, let us stand in solidarity with the aspirations of the Palestinian people to achieve their inalienable rights and build a future of peace, justice, security and dignity for all.

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