Amman – Living in one of the world’s most water-stressed countries, communities in Yemen continue to suffer the intense effects of drought and tensions over securing sufficient resources. Water scarcity leaves farmers unable to cultivate their crops and families unable to sustain themselves; it also exacerbates insecurity among communities.  

To address this disparity, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) signed today a USD 4 million project that will restore access to water for agriculture and domestic use, as well as reduce community tensions over crucial resources in Yemen. 

The project, entitled “Water for Peace in Yemen: Strengthening the Role of Women in Water Conflict Resolution and Resource Management across the Humanitarian Development Peace Nexus”, aims to improve natural resource management and methods for preventing and resolving conflict over resources, which will reach more than 211,000 people in Hadramawt governorate.  

“Sustainable management of resources plays a vital role in preventing conflict and fostering peaceful coexistence. Yemen's journey towards peace and the realization of the sustainable development goals requires a concerted effort to expand access to crucial services and mitigate water-related conflicts,” said Matt Huber, IOM Yemen’s Acting Chief of Mission. 

“The generous donation of KOICA will help communities improve their access to crucial water resources and support them in community-led initiatives for conflict resolution and natural resources.”  

“The Republic of Korea, through KOICA, is pleased to launch this project with IOM which will address vulnerabilities caused by climate change through the empowerment of women. We are confident that this project will contribute to the safe and peaceful management of water,” said His Excellency Mr. DO Bong-kae, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Yemen.

“KOICA's first collaboration with IOM in Yemen marks a significant milestone for us. This project holds particular significance as it aligns with the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus approach in which it tackles the urgent challenges of water scarcity and conflict while laying the groundwork for adaptive solutions to manage and alleviate flood risks.” said SEO Dongsung, KOICA Country Director based in Amman, Jordan.

In recent years, Yemen has experienced two weather extremes – both severe drought and intense flooding – which has worsened the economic instability facing communities. This project will aim to help many of these communities to cope with this harsh reality brought on by climate change. 

Water infrastructure will be rehabilitated or constructed, including terraces, irrigation systems, protection infrastructure, damaged water infrastructure and solar-powered water pumps. This restored infrastructure will help to expand water access and mitigate the impact of flooding. 

The initiative will also strengthen the role of women and youth in natural resource management and conflict resolution mechanisms.   

Moreover, the project focuses on capacity building of officials and beneficiaries for sustainability, establishing a pesticide testing facility to reduce the risks of water contamination, and awareness campaigns on women’s role in conflict resolution and distribution of awareness materials. 

For more information, please contact:

Monica Chiriac, Media and Communications Officer, at mchiriac@iom.int 
IOM Yemen’s Communications Team at iomyemenmediacomm@iom.int