FAO Yemen: Dutch Ambassador and Embassy Officials Visit Al Mukalla to Strengthen Cooperation in Agriculture and Water Sectors in Yemen

Al Mukalla, Yemen – March 2025

In a remarkable diplomatic engagement, H.E. Ambassador Jeannette Seppen, alongside Mr. Jan-Pieter Ohler, First Secretary for Water, Food Security, and Private Sector Development at the Netherlands Embassy, embarked on a significant visit to Al Mukalla, Hadramout Governorate. 

This visit aimed to enhance bilateral cooperation, assess ongoing development initiatives, and engage in meaningful discussions regarding future interventions in the agriculture and water sectors. The Dutch delegation was warmly welcomed by  Mr. Abdulla Awad AlAubthani, Director General of the Agriculture Office, at the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Fisheries in Al Mukalla. The discussions focused on strengthening Dutch-Yemeni collaboration to bolster food security, foster climate-resilient agricultural practices, and support the livelihoods of rural communities. 

Advancing Agricultural Development and Water Security

During the visit, Ambassador Seppen reiterated the Netherlands' steadfast commitment to supporting Yemen's agricultural sector, emphasizing the critical role of sustainable water management and food security in building resilient communities

“Investing in agriculture and water resources is vital for achieving long-term stability. The Netherlands is dedicated to partnering with Yemen to elevate agricultural productivity and enhance economic resilience,” she stated.

The discussions also highlighted the urgent need for increased support in Wadi Hajar, particularly in areas related to irrigation infrastructure, water conservation, and capacity building for local farmers. 

The delegation recognized the significance of rehabilitating water systems, strengthening livestock health services, and implementing modern agricultural techniques to improve overall productivity. 

Promoting Research and Women's Economic Empowerment

As part of their visit, the delegation engaged with Professor Mohammed S. Khanbash, President of Hadramout University, and esteemed faculty members to explored various academic collaborations. Discussions included supporting research initiatives, particularly a women-led fish preservation project at the Faculty of Science. 

Additionally, the FAO Dutch-supported Wadi Hajar project is assisting the university in constructing fishponds for research and practical training, providing students with hands-on experience in fish breeding and contributing significantly to sustainable aquaculture development in the region. 

Strengthening Water Infrastructure and Wastewater Management

Leveraging its substantial expertise in water management, the Netherlands is collaborating with FAO to rehabilitate wastewater pumping stations in Al Mukalla. The Embassy’s support extends to multiple water management projects in Hadramout, including significant interventions in Wadi Hajar and Wadi Ain.

To improve Al Mukalla's wastewater management system, the Netherlands will provide ten large electrical pumps along with spare parts through FAO. This initiative is part of broader efforts to improve Yemen's water infrastructure and sanitation services, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Reinforcing Dutch-Yemeni Cooperation

The visit fortified the Netherlands' commitment to addressing Yemen's pressing challenges, particularly in water scarcity, food insecurity, and climate change. Both parties emphasized the necessity of sustained cooperation to drive long-term development, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen local governance within the agricultural and water sectors.

Key representatives from FAO, including Engineer Abdulkarim Al-Sabri, Engineer Raed Al-Amrani, and Engineer Mohammed Bajsir, actively participated in discussions alongside government officials and sector specialists.

The Netherlands remains an invaluable development partner for Yemen, actively supporting agriculture, water resource management, and food security across various governorates. Through collaborative efforts with FAO and local stakeholders, these initiatives aim to create sustainable solutions that empower communities and strengthen resilience against future challenges.

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