The Prime Minister welcomes the new UNDP Resident Representative in Yemen.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak welcomed Zina Ali Ahmed, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Yemen, in the temporary capital of Aden. The meeting focused on evaluating the existing partnership between the Yemeni government and the UNDP, as well as discussing future prospects in light of urgent priorities.

Addressing Humanitarian Challenges

During the meeting, the two officials discussed the UNDP’s efforts to secure additional funding for sustainable and effective programs aimed at alleviating the suffering of the Yemeni people. They also addressed serious violations committed by Houthi militias against humanitarian work, including the ongoing abduction of numerous activists and international staff members.

UNDP Initiatives and Future Plans

Zina Ali Ahmed provided a comprehensive overview of the UNDP’s intervention areas, which include electricity, clean energy, climate change mitigation, livelihood support, and improving the efficiency of the Port of Aden. She highlighted the completion of a thorough study on renewable energy in Yemen and the potential for partnerships with the private sector. Additionally, she announced the finalization of an economic and social development plan for the governorates of Hadramout and Lahij, following the launch of a similar plan for Taiz.

Commitment to Reform and Economic Recovery

Prime Minister bin Mubarak expressed his appreciation for the UNDP’s interventions, emphasizing the need to align these efforts with pressing priorities. He underscored the importance of the UNDP’s active contribution to supporting the government’s vision and its comprehensive program for financial and administrative reforms, as well as the implementation of an economic recovery plan. The Prime Minister also mentioned ongoing preparations for the first national energy conference, which aims to gather international support and funding for the government’s electricity sector strategy and foster effective partnerships with the private sector.

Strengthening Partnerships for National Reform

In response, Zina Ali Ahmed reaffirmed the UNDP’s commitment to supporting the national reform agenda led by the Prime Minister. She emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration with the government across various aspects related to the program’s work.

Attendees of the Meeting

The meeting also included the presence of Prime Minister’s advisor, Ambassador Mujib Othman, Executive Director of the Prime Minister’s Technical Team, Jamal bin Ghanem, and Deputy Resident Representative of the UNDP in Yemen, Nadia Al-Awamleh.

This meeting marks a significant step towards strengthening the partnership between the Yemeni government and the UNDP, aiming to address the urgent needs of the Yemeni people while fostering sustainable development in the region.

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