Dutch Delegation Engages with Hadhramaut Council to Advance Water and Agriculture Initiatives

Dutch Delegation Visits Hadhramaut to Discuss Agricultural and Water Projects

MUKALLA, Hadhramaut – On October 10, 2023, Saeed Ahmed Al-Khanbashi, a member of the Presidential Leadership Council and Governor of Hadhramaut, welcomed a delegation from the Dutch Embassy in Yemen and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The delegation, led by Deputy Dutch Ambassador Bart Finistra, included representatives from the organization and local specialists.

Hadhramaut: A Model of Stability and Development

During the meeting, which was attended by Deputy Governor Hassan Al-Jailani and representatives from the Ministries of Agriculture and Water, Al-Khanbashi emphasized the strong ties between Yemen and the Netherlands. He praised the projects supported by the Netherlands through the FAO in critical areas such as development, food security, and water management.

Al-Khanbashi highlighted Hadhramaut as a model of security and stability, making it an ideal environment for implementing developmental projects. He expressed gratitude for the ongoing Dutch support in sectors including agriculture, irrigation, and water management.

Priorities for Hadhramaut: Water Security and Sustainable Agriculture

Al-Khanbashi outlined several urgent needs for the region, including:

• Enhancing water security and increasing groundwater reserves in the districts of Ghayl Bawazir, Hadhramaut, and Daw’an.
• Expanding sustainable agricultural and water development projects.
• Engaging the private sector and empowering youth while supporting scientific research.
• Strengthening partnerships with Hadhramaut University and Seiyun University.
• Expanding sanitation projects, particularly in Mukalla.
• Supporting aquaculture projects.

Netherlands: A Broad Partnership with Hadhramaut in Water Management

Deputy Ambassador Finistra expressed his pleasure at visiting Hadhramaut for the second time. He noted that the partnership with Hadhramaut is founded on shared interests, particularly in water management, which opens avenues for new projects and knowledge exchange. Finistra also reviewed several ongoing and completed projects, commending the focus on youth involvement in development.

FAO: 70% Completion of Integrated Water Resources Management Project

The FAO representative provided an overview of ongoing projects, notably the Integrated Water Resources Management Project, which includes:

• Irrigation and water facilities.
• Modern irrigation systems, such as greenhouses, rain-fed irrigation, drip irrigation, and home gardens.
• Support for farmers with seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation networks.

He reported that the project has achieved a 70% completion rate, benefiting hundreds of farmers through rain-fed irrigation in the districts of Yabath and Barom Mayfa. Plans are underway to target additional districts in the near future.

Commitment to Continued Partnership

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the importance of ongoing coordination between local authorities, the Dutch government, and the FAO. This collaboration aims to enhance food and water security and support sustainable development in Hadhramaut.

For more information, visit Yemen TV.