The Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen supports farmers in 3 governorates
In a new step aimed at strengthening economic stability and improving livelihoods in the Republic of Yemen, the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen(SDRPY) signed a strategic agreement today to implement the "Strengthening the Agricultural Value Chain for Smallholders" project. The signing ceremony took place with the Response Foundation for Humanitarian and Relief Work. The project aims to reach approximately 2,300 Yemeni families, representing more than 16,000 direct beneficiaries, across three vital governorates: Abyan, Marib, and Hadramawt.
A fundamental pillar of the Yemeni economy
This project stems from a deep understanding of the Yemeni economy, where agriculture is the backbone of rural life and the primary source of income for a large segment of the population. This vital sector has suffered greatly in recent years due to the exceptional circumstances the country has faced, negatively impacting productivity and food security. Therefore, the importance of development interventions that go beyond providing immediate relief is paramount. These interventions aim to rehabilitate agricultural infrastructure and empower farmers to resume and develop their activities in line with local market demands.
Partnership details and implementation mechanisms
The Saudi side was represented at the signing of the agreement by the Assistant General Supervisor of the Program, Engineer Hassan Al-Attas, while the Yemeni side was represented by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Istijaba Foundation, Shawqi Mahfouz Ba’azim. The project focuses directly on supporting vital sectors with a tangible impact, primarily agriculture and livestock. It is designed to be a practical response to development needs, working to develop income sources for families, improve the efficiency of natural resource use, and enhance the sustainability of livelihoods for pastoral families who depend entirely on livestock breeding.
The scope of work includes the integrated development of the agricultural value chain, starting with the provision of improved agricultural inputs and the enhancement of modern irrigation technologies to conserve water, and culminating in training farmers to strengthen their ability to achieve better economic returns. This comprehensive approach aims to shift beneficiaries from low-yield to high-value production, thereby transforming families from a state of need to one of production and self-sufficiency.
Sustainable impact of the Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen
The importance of this project extends beyond immediate support to encompass sustainable development dimensions that enhance food security and social stability in the targeted governorates. The Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen particular attention to the most vulnerable groups to ensure inclusive development, including female-headed households, the elderly, and people with disabilities. This development initiative is expected to create new job opportunities and revitalize commercial activity in local markets in the governorates of Abyan, Marib, and Hadramawt, reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to supporting the brotherly Yemeni people in various service and development sectors.
