FAO Yemen: World Water Day 2025: FAO’s Water Initiatives in Hadramout Drive Resilience and Food Security

Hadramout, Yemen – 22 March 2025

Yemen faces one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, driven by prolonged conflict, water scarcity, and climate change. Over 80% of the population requires humanitarian aid, and approximately 16 million depend on agriculture, yet irrigation systems have been severely damaged due to environmental degradation and war. Water demand continues to outstrip supply, exacerbating food insecurity and pushing vulnerable communities deeper into poverty.

In response, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Yemen, with support from the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the German Investment and Development Bank (KfW), has launched transformative initiatives in Hadramout governorate Wadi Al-Ain, Al-Qatn and Shibam districts. This project, part of the FAO Resilience Programme in the Irrigation and Agricultural Sector, is rehabilitating critical water infrastructure, strengthening flood protection, and promoting sustainable water governance to ensure long-term food security and resilience. 

For years, farmers in Hadramout struggled with severe droughts, regular floods, and inefficient irrigation systems that left crops failing and livelihoods at risk. FAO Yemen is addressing these issues by restoring irrigation infrastructure, constructing flood protection systems, and implementing cash-for-work programmes that provide temporary income while improving water access. These efforts are reinforced by training programmes for Water User Associations (WUAs), ensuring that local communities have the knowledge and tools to manage water resources sustainably.

“Before, we struggled with dry seasons as well as floods, and our crops would often fail. Now, with improved irrigation and water management, my farm is thriving,” said Abdulaziz Ba Dawae, a farmer from Hadramout. “This project has given us hope and a future.”

The intervention is also advancing gender inclusivity by strengthening women’s roles in water governance. Through targeted training programmes, women in Hadramout are gaining the skills and authority to participate in WUAs, helping to shape decisions on sustainable water management and disaster resilience. 

The impact of FAO Yemen’s efforts is already visible, with over 21,000 direct beneficiaries gaining improved access to water and increased agricultural productivity. In addition to enhancing food security, the initiative is fostering economic recovery by creating employment opportunities particularly for displaced individuals, women, and youth. These interventions are laying the foundation for long-term resilience, ensuring that communities in Hadramout can sustainably manage their water resources and build a more secure future.

“Our goal is to build long-term resilience by ensuring sustainable water management, enhancing food security, and mitigating water-related conflicts,” said Dr. Hussein Gadain, FAO Representative in Yemen. “These projects are a testament to the power of collaboration and sustainable solutions in addressing Yemen’s water crisis.”

Additional Ongoing Efforts to Strengthen Water and Agriculture in Hadramout

The Netherlands and France are funding projects in the Wadi Hajir watershed (Hajar, Maefa'a, and Broom districts) in south area of Hadramout to improve water security, agriculture, and climate resilience for over 90,000 people. Key activities include developing watershed management plans, promoting sustainable agriculture, training water user groups, establishing flood protection structures, empowering women, and implementing cash-for-work programmes. A Dutch-funded wastewater treatment system will enhance sanitation for over 250,000 people and mitigate environmental risks. 

These initiatives aim for increased access to agricultural water for higher crop yields, improved irrigation, and a water resource management plan covering 27,760 hectares. FAO Yemen collaborates with the Netherlands, KfW, and the French Government to support the Yemeni people, advancing sustainable water governance and addressing ongoing humanitarian challenges.

For media inquiries, please contact FAO Yemen Communications Team: 

Evani Debone 

Email: Evani.Debone@fao.org

Phone: +967 73 988 8063