UNDP Yemen: Hussein turns his car maintenance skills into a thriving business in Hadramout, Yemen

In Al-Qatn District, Hadramaut Governorate, Yemen, Hussein had always been known for his skills in car maintenance. He grew up fixing old cars in his area, learning the trade from a very young age. But as time passed, cars became more complex, and Hussein realized that his knowledge of older models was no longer enough. He dreamed of becoming a master in modern car repair, but required the right tools and training. 

When Hussein learned about the Vocational and Business Skills Training and Support Project Phase II implemented the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Yemen, with local partner, the Small and Micro Enterprises Promotion Service (SMEPS) generously funded by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), he immediately enrolled. The training turned out to be everything he needed and more. Hussein learned not just about the mechanics of modern cars, but also about managing a business and building a brand. 

Following the vocational training, Hussein received an in-kind start-up grant. "The grant made me free and independent in my work and specialization in car maintenance," Hussein shares. 

Before this support, Hussein had always borrowed or rented repair equipment, which limited his ability to fully serve his customers. With the grant, Hussein purchased the tools and materials he needed, allowing him to offer more comprehensive services without the constraints of borrowing equipment.

Hussein’s workshop quickly became a hub for car owners in the district. 

"The training was excellent," he shared. "I had experience with old cars, but with the training, I developed my skills and became more knowledgeable about repairing modern cars." His confidence grew as he worked on newer models, and his reputation as a skilled mechanic began to spread.

With the right equipment at his disposal, Hussein was able to lower his repair prices. This not only attracted more customers but also built trust within the community. 

"Because I now have all the equipment needed, I have reduced my repair prices, which has brought in more customers and helped me build a good reputation," Hussein explains. His strategy was simple but effective: offer quality service at fair prices and let his work speak for itself.

Now, Hussein is dreaming even bigger. "I’m thinking of opening a shop in the city center," he explains. "That way, I can attract even more customers and compete with the big shops." 

For Hussein, this is just the beginning. He is building a name for himself, not just in his district, but throughout Hadramout Governorate.

Thanks to the training, the grant, and his hard work and determination, Hussein has gone from struggling to independent. He has turned his dream into a reality and knows that the future holds even more possibilities. 

***

The Vocational and Business Skills Training and Support Project (Phase II) aims to empower 1,533 young women and men in rural areas with vocational, technical, and business skills, and nurture an entrepreneurship culture to enhance their employability and productive engagement in economic and local recovery activities. This project is funded by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief). The project provides grants and technical training on a wide variety of in-demand professions across nine governorates and 24 districts:  Abyan (Ahwar and Khanfir), Lahj (Al-Maqatera, Al-Qabaita, Radfan, Ras Al-Arah, Tuban), Aden (Daar Saad), Marib (Marib), Shabwah (Ar rawdah, Merkhah as sufla and Rudum), Hadramaut (Al-Mukalla, Al-Qatn, Ash shihr, Tareem), Al Maharah (Al-Ghaydah and Huswain), Ad dhale’e (Ad dhale'e and Al-Azariq), and Taiz (Al-Shamayatain Salah, Mawza and Al-Waziya). The project builds participants’ capacities in the areas of food processing, textiles and handloom, and vocational skills such as car mechanics, carpentry, cell phone repairs, home appliance maintenance, veterinary services, solar energy systems installation and maintenance.