Yemen faces severe challenges from conflict and climate change, impacting water, food security, and economic stability. The World Bank’s Yemen Country Climate and Development Report highlights the need for climate-responsive investments and identifies strategic opportunities to enhance resilience, particularly in agriculture and water management. Without urgent action, Yemen’s GDP may decline significantly by 2040, necessitating peacebuilding and international support for sustainable recovery efforts.
Yemen is grappling with compounding challenges stemming from prolonged conflict and escalating climate change repercussions. The World Bank Group’s recently published Yemen Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR) indicates that Yemen’s climate vulnerabilities, including water scarcity and food insecurity, are exacerbated by these adversities. With rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and increased extreme weather events, approximately fifty percent of the population is already facing at least one climate-related threat. Without timely intervention, the country risks an average annual GDP decline of 3.9% by 2040 due to reduced agricultural yields and infrastructural damage. The CCDR articulates pathways for resilience, particularly through strategic investments in water management and agriculture adaptation techniques that could enhance crop productivity by up to 13.5% from 2041 to 2050 under favorable conditions. Nonetheless, the fisheries sector remains at risk, projected to incur losses of approximately 23% by mid-century as a consequence of rising sea temperatures. Stephane Guimbert, the World Bank Country Director for Egypt, Yemen, and Djibouti, emphasized the urgency of addressing climate resilience, stating, “Yemen is facing an unprecedented convergence of crises — conflict, climate change, and poverty. Immediate and decisive action on climate resilience is a matter of survival for millions of Yemenis.” The report stresses that endeavors towards peacebuilding are essential for attracting international investment and sustainable recovery. Increased instances of flash floods heighten the importance of disaster risk management, notably in urban settings where critical infrastructure is at risk. Failure to implement adaptation strategies could lead to economic shocks that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable communities. Climate-related healthcare challenges may impose over $5 billion in excess costs by 2050, urging the need to integrate climate resilience into public health planning with special emphasis on women and children. Moreover, Yemen possesses substantial renewable energy potential, which could significantly contribute to climate recovery efforts. The development of renewable energy sources not only reduces dependency on fossil fuels but also bolsters essential services like healthcare and food distribution, particularly within conflict-impacted regions. Khawaja Aftab Ahmed, IFC’s Regional Director for the Middle East, remarked, “The private sector has a critical role to play in addressing Yemen’s pressing development challenges.” Encouraging innovative financing and cultivating a secure investment environment are crucial for attracting the necessary climate-focused funding necessary for a sustainable future. The CCDR promotes adaptive, risk-informed decision-making tailored to Yemen’s volatile political landscape through a scenario-based approach. Under an optimistic “Peace and Prosperity” framework, Yemen could undertake greater adaptation initiatives, leading to substantial social and economic benefits. The report aims to inform all stakeholders about impactful actions to mitigate climate challenges while promoting broader developmental objectives.
Yemen is currently experiencing a severe crisis characterized by the dual impacts of ongoing conflict and climate change, which significantly hinder the nation’s development prospects. With a history of prolonged instability, the socio-economic fabric of the country has become increasingly fragile, making it susceptible to various climate-induced vulnerabilities. The World Bank Group’s Country Climate and Development Reports (CCDRs) are instrumental in assisting countries like Yemen in identifying essential actions for resilient growth while addressing climate change and sustainability goals. The CCDR for Yemen outlines the pressing needs and potential pathways for building resilience in key sectors such as agriculture, water management, and healthcare amidst the country’s unique challenges.
The Yemen Country Climate and Development Report underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the intertwined crises of climate change, conflict, and poverty. By prioritizing climate-responsive investments, particularly in water and agricultural resilience, Yemen could pave the way towards sustainable recovery. However, achieving these objectives will necessitate peacebuilding efforts and active international cooperation to mobilize necessary funding. The role of the private sector and renewable energy development is also critical in amplifying Yemen’s climate resilience capabilities, ultimately ensuring a more secure and sustainable future for its populace.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
