Yemen joins the 2nd Arab Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Risk Reduction.

Cairo Hosts Key Arab League Conference

The Republic of Yemen marked its presence today at the second Arab Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Risk Reduction. The event, organized by the Arab League in Cairo, Egypt, saw participation from a delegation led by Yemen’s Minister of Water and Environment, Engineer Tawfiq Al-Sharjabi.

Discussion Points and Objectives

Ministers from Arab states concerned with disaster risk reduction convened to deliberate on several critical issues. These discussions centered around the monitoring of natural disasters, progress on the Arab Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the Arab roadmap for emergency preparedness and response to radiological emergencies. Additionally, the delegates examined an Arab project aimed at mitigating maritime disasters.

Yemen’s Unique Challenges Highlighted

Minister Al-Sharjabi shared insights into the disaster risks and crises Yemen faces, particularly those arising from rapid climate changes and the decade-long war ignited by the Houthi militia against the Yemeni people. He highlighted the recent devastating floods that swept through many provinces, underscoring the government’s preparedness efforts despite limited resources. Al-Sharjabi stressed that the magnitude of the disaster exceeded Yemen’s coping capabilities, emphasizing the need for increased national efforts and Arab support through coordination mechanisms of the Arab League to implement the Arab Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction.

Impact of War on Disaster Management Capabilities

The Water and Environment Minister also pointed out the war’s detrimental effect on the capacity of institutions and the halt in updating necessary legislation and regulations for disaster risk management. He drew attention to the environmental disasters caused by Houthi militias, including attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, which pose significant threats to the marine environment and the region’s marine life stock. An example given was the targeting of the fertilizer transport ship “Robimar” in February.

Call for Action in Palestine

Al-Sharjabi touched upon the deliberate destruction, killing, and infrastructural damage inflicted upon the Palestinian territories, including water and electricity cutoffs and the obstruction of aid. He called for an immediate cessation of violence and the initiation of genuine negotiations that respect international resolutions and the historical rights of the Palestinian people.

Engagement and Support for a Safer Future

The meeting in Cairo not only served as a platform for discussing disaster risk reduction but also highlighted the interconnectedness of Arab nations in the face of natural and man-made disasters. Yemen’s participation underscores the country’s commitment to enhancing its disaster preparedness and resilience, with a call for solidarity and support from its Arab counterparts.

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