Minister of Planning Engages with UNOPS to Enhance Development Initiatives in Yemen

Minister of Planning Engages with UNOPS to Enhance Development Initiatives in Yemen

In a significant meeting held today in the temporary capital of Aden, Dr. Afrah Al-Zuba, Yemen’s Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, engaged with Mohammed Othman, the Country Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in the Middle East. The discussions centered on enhancing collaborative efforts to implement development and service projects that address urgent humanitarian and developmental needs, particularly in vital sectors.

Emphasizing Health and Water Sectors

During the meeting, Minister Al-Zuba underscored the importance of supporting recovery and development efforts in Yemen, with a specific focus on the health and water sectors. She highlighted the significant challenges posed by funding shortages and stressed the necessity of seeking additional supportive entities to ensure the continuity of humanitarian and developmental interventions.

Strengthening Partnerships for Impactful Projects

The Minister praised the existing partnership between the Yemeni government and UNOPS in executing development projects. She noted that aligning these initiatives with the national plans presented by the government has led to tangible improvements in essential services. Al-Zuba reiterated the importance of ongoing collaboration to implement more service-oriented and developmental projects.

UNOPS Contributions and Future Support

In response, Mohammed Othman reviewed UNOPS’s interventions in Yemen since the office commenced operations. He outlined the focus on several critical sectors, including education, water, and electricity, aimed at enhancing basic services. Othman also discussed the “Support for Lifelines” approach, which includes initiatives to bolster food security, healthcare facilities, and the rehabilitation of essential infrastructure and roads.

Additionally, the UN official expressed the office’s readiness to provide technical support and strengthen the role of local institutions. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing various sectors, particularly water and health, as they remain crucial for Yemen’s development.

This meeting marks a pivotal step in fostering international cooperation to address Yemen’s pressing needs and improve the quality of life for its citizens.