Saudi-European support for Marib water project amounting to 9 million riyals
In a move reflecting the depth of international and regional commitment to the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, particularly in the basic services sector, the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen (SDRPY) announced its collaboration with the European Union to launch a new support package targeting the vital water sector. This initiative culminates an ongoing strategic partnership aimed at improving the livelihoods of the Yemeni people and implementing sustainable development projects that go beyond emergency relief aid.
Details of the strategic agreement in Marib
The Saudi capital, Riyadh, witnessed the signing ceremony of a joint agreement to implement the "Enhancing Water Security in Marib Governorate" project, at a total cost exceeding 9 million Saudi riyals . The agreement was signed by the General Supervisor of the Saudi Program, Ambassador Mohammed bin Saeed Al Jaber, and the European Union Ambassador to Yemen, Patrick Simonnet, along with the implementing partner, the "Sila for Development" Foundation, represented by its Executive Director, Ali Hassan Bashmakh.
The project directly targets the needs of nine key areas across three vital districts: Marib Valley, Marib City, and Harib. These areas were selected based on thorough field studies of needs, as they suffer from high population density and a scarcity of potable water and water suitable for agricultural use.
The importance of the project and the humanitarian context in Marib
This project is of exceptional importance given the demographic situation in Marib Governorate, which has become a safe haven for millions of internally displaced people from various Yemeni governorates during the years of crisis. This massive influx has placed immense pressure on the already dilapidated infrastructure, particularly water and sanitation networks. Therefore, investing 9 million riyals in this sector not only contributes to providing water but also enhances social and health stability, reduces the spread of waterborne diseases, and supports the resilience of the local community in the face of economic challenges.
Dimensions of the partnership between Saudi Arabia and the European Union
This support is not limited to the financial aspect alone; it also carries significant political and developmental implications, reflecting international confidence in the mechanisms of the Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen . This agreement exemplifies a model of integrated work between international donors and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to maximize the sustainable impact of development interventions. This partnership focuses on the transition from the relief phase to economic recovery and reconstruction, through support for the food security, agriculture, electricity, and environmental sanitation sectors.
During the signing, both sides affirmed their commitment to continue coordinating to explore future cooperation opportunities, opening the door to more projects that touch the daily lives of Yemeni citizens and contribute to rebuilding state institutions.
