Saudi Arabia implements 62 water security projects in 14 Yemeni provinces

Saudi Arabia, through the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen, has implemented 62 development projects and initiatives to support the water sector in 14 Yemeni provinces. The aim is to improve water distribution efficiency in both urban and rural areas, strengthen water security, expand access to safe drinking water, enhance living conditions, and promote water sustainability.

These projects have provided sustainable sources of fresh and safe water, improved the efficiency of water systems, and reduced losses. They have also strengthened the capacity of local communities to manage their water resources, achieving tangible results in meeting residents' basic needs. The initiatives fully covered the water needs of Al-Ghaydah in Al-Mahrah province, met 50% of Socotra's requirements, and contributed to addressing part of Aden's needs.

The program's water sector projects follow an integrated development approach, combining infrastructure development, the use of modern technologies, and the promotion of environmental and operational sustainability. This includes establishing and upgrading water networks, connecting sources to beneficiaries, and utilizing renewable energy systems to operate wells and pumps. These measures help increase production and distribution efficiency, reduce operating costs, and expand services to the most in-need areas.

The program's interventions have also supported agricultural activities by providing modern irrigation systems, including drip irrigation technology, to improve water use efficiency and reduce waste. This contributes to sustainable agricultural production and food security for targeted communities.

The integrated water system project in Socotra stands out as a model intervention, combining diversified water sources, upgraded supply systems, and enhanced sustainability of water resources.

Efforts have also included empowering local communities and building technical and institutional capacities through training programs to develop the skills of workers and beneficiaries in water resource management, system operation, and maintenance. Awareness campaigns have promoted local participation and sustainable water consumption and management practices, supporting service continuity and improving project operations in the long term.

In January this year, the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen announced the launch of the first water desalination plant in Yemen, located in Aden. The project aims to boost fresh water sources and reduce resource depletion by using modern desalination technologies. It also involves transferring Saudi expertise and building the capacity of Yemeni staff in desalination, supporting technical and operational efficiency and service sustainability in the province.

This support is part of Saudi Arabia's comprehensive development interventions in Yemen through the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program, coordinated with the Yemeni government and local authorities. To date, the program has delivered a total of 300 projects and initiatives across 16 Yemeni provinces, covering eight vital sectors: education, health, energy, water, transport, agriculture and fisheries, development programs, and the development and support of Yemeni government capacities.