[17/08/2026 05:22]

ADEN – SABA
Minister of Water and Environment Eng. Tawfiq al-Sharjabi discussed Monday with water expert at the headquarters of the International Relief Organization (CRS) Yohannes Spajedis ways to strengthen cooperation and partnership between the ministry and the organization in the water and sanitation sector.

Priorities for project programming and proposed interventions for the next phase, in line with the ministry’s priorities and the growing needs of the sector were also discussed.

The meeting reviewed the existing level of cooperation between the ministry and the International Relief Organization, as well as the organization’s role in supporting the ministry’s efforts and the Climate and Environment Unit through field visits and surveys of the outlets of Wadi Bana as part of the activities of the Climate Adaptation Project.

The two sides also discussed a number of programs and initiatives currently under development, most notably the World Bank’s “Water Charter” program and the “Water for the Future” initiative.

These efforts are intended to strengthen coordination between the government and development partners, mobilize resources, and direct investments toward the most urgent priorities in the water and sanitation sector.

The meeting also discussed the ongoing watershed study in Wadi Bana and the importance of its findings in identifying needs and challenges related to water resources, as well as in designing more sustainable future interventions based on field data and analysis.

Particular emphasis was placed on integrated water resources management and strengthening local communities’ capacity to adapt to the impacts of climate change and water scarcity.

The meeting further addressed cooperation in preparing a specialized survey on water and irrigation management in Yemen, which would provide updated data and information to support the development of policies and programs related to water resources and irrigation management.

Minister al-Sharjabi said the water crisis is placing significant pressure on a number of areas, further increasing existing needs. He stressed the importance of conducting accurate needs assessments and establishing priorities based on the scale of needs and the anticipated impact.

Al-Sharjabi underscored the ministry’s commitment to strengthening partnership and coordination with the International Relief Organization and development partners to ensure the integration of interventions, avoid duplication, and align projects with national plans and priorities. He also highlighted the importance of leveraging technical expertise to develop practical and fundable interventions that contribute to improving water and sanitation services, promoting sustainable water resources management and water security, and enhancing resilience to the impacts of climate change.

For his part, the water expert at the headquarters of the International Relief Organization (CRS) expressed the organization’s appreciation for the ongoing cooperation and coordination with the Ministry of Water and Environment.

He affirmed the organization’s commitment to continuing its support for the water and sanitation sector and working in coordination with the ministry to develop projects and interventions that respond to actual needs and priorities, enhance the sustainability of water and sanitation services, and support efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change.

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