The Planning Minister discusses enhancing coordination and supporting development priorities with the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Yemen.

Minister of Planning Discusses Development Coordination in Yemen

In a significant meeting held today in the temporary capital of Aden, Dr. Afrah Al-Zouba, Yemen’s Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, engaged with Laurent Buker, the Acting Resident Coordinator of the United Nations and Humanitarian Coordinator in Yemen. The discussion focused on enhancing coordination efforts and supporting upcoming development priorities.

Addressing National Sector Needs

Both parties examined the essential interventions and basic needs across national sectors. They explored ways to strengthen collaboration between the Yemeni government and relevant UN organizations, particularly in areas such as climate change adaptation and early warning systems. This collaboration aims to prepare a joint action plan to address these critical issues.

Emphasizing Government’s Role

Minister Al-Zouba underscored the government’s pivotal role in defining humanitarian and developmental program priorities. She highlighted the importance of building institutional capacities alongside project implementation. Furthermore, she stressed the need to align development partners’ interventions with the National Development Plan (2027-2029), which is currently under preparation.

Call for Data Sharing

The Minister urged UN agencies and international NGOs to share project data and interventions with her ministry. This request aims to unify development and humanitarian data within a national information system. She pointed out the decline in international funding and its adverse effects on essential services, particularly in the health sector.

Joint Efforts for Resource Allocation

Minister Al-Zouba called for collaborative efforts to identify priorities and direct available resources to ensure the continuity of essential services. She reiterated the need to expedite the relocation of UN agency offices to Aden. This move would enhance direct coordination with state institutions and improve the efficiency of joint cooperation.

Commitment to Partnership

In response, Laurent Buker reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Yemeni government. He emphasized the importance of supporting the government’s developmental and humanitarian priorities while intensifying joint coordination. This collaboration aims to enhance the effectiveness of interventions that address the needs of the Yemeni people.

This meeting marks a crucial step towards fostering a more coordinated approach to development and humanitarian efforts in Yemen, ensuring that the needs of its citizens remain at the forefront of all initiatives.

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