Yemen is experiencing significant challenges due to ongoing conflict and climate change, necessitating urgent investments in resilience and sustainable practices. The World Bank’s CCDR emphasizes the critical need to enhance water security, adaptive agriculture, and renewable energy to combat food insecurity and bolster the economy. Immediate actions and international cooperation are required to address health implications and economic degradation from climate risks, as well as to facilitate long-term recovery and development amid a fragile political landscape.
Yemen is grappling with severe challenges, exacerbated by a decade-long conflict, which has compounded the threats posed by climate change. The newly issued Yemen Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR) by the World Bank Group underscores the essential need for investment in climate-resilient initiatives that address immediate concerns in water management, agriculture, and disaster preparedness, particularly within the context of a fragile and conflict-affected environment. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and more frequent extreme weather events significantly threaten Yemen’s vulnerable populations and economic stability, with half of the Yemeni population currently facing at least one climate-related hazard, such as drought or flooding. The CCDR warns that without proactive measures, the economic consequences could be dire, with a projected annual GDP decline of about 3.9% by 2040. Moreover, the report identifies targeted investment strategies, such as enhancing water storage systems and embracing adaptive agricultural methods, which could lead to increased crop yields. The fisheries sector also remains under threat, potentially facing losses of up to 23% by mid-century as a result of rising sea temperatures. Stephane Guimbert, the World Bank Country Director for Egypt, Yemen, and Djibouti, emphasizes the urgency of climate resilience as vital for survival, 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.” There is a pressing need for investments in water security, climate-smart agricultural practices, and renewable energy to foster resilience and pave the way for sustainable recovery. The CCDR makes it clear that any developmental strategies must intertwine peace-building efforts and commitments from the international community. While humanitarian support can enhance the adaptive capacity of the population, fostering lasting peace is crucial to unlocking necessary investments and actions. Furthermore, the report highlights the importance of disaster risk management, particularly as flash floods become more prevalent. A significant part of the report focuses on climate-related health challenges, which could impose over $5 billion in additional healthcare costs by 2050, straining already vulnerable health systems. Addressing these obstacles necessitates an integrated approach to public health planning, particularly for vulnerable demographics such as women and children. Yemen also possesses considerable potential for renewable energy development, crucial for establishing a climate-responsive infrastructure. This shift would reduce dependency on fossil fuels and bolster critical services, including healthcare and water supply, especially within conflict-impacted areas. Khawaja Aftab Ahmed, IFC’s Regional Director for the Middle East, points out the vital role of the private sector in confronting Yemen’s developmental issues, suggesting that innovative financing mechanisms can engage the necessary climate-focused funding that Yemen urgently needs. The CCDR advocates for adaptable, informed decision-making that reflects the uncertain political climate in Yemen. Its scenario-based approach allows for investment that aligns with either peacebuilding or conflict scenarios, paving the way for varying levels of adaptation and potential socio-economic benefits.
Yemen’s current landscape is marked by intertwined crises — ongoing conflict, climate change, and pervasive poverty. The World Bank’s Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR) is a response to these compounding challenges, aiming to synthesize climate change impacts with developmental strategies. Yemen is experiencing significant climate threats, including rising temperatures and increasing weather extremities, which further complicate the humanitarian landscape of a nation already facing severe socio-economic hardships. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for formulating effective responses.
The Yemen Country Climate and Development Report highlights the urgent need for integrated strategies that address climate resilience amid ongoing conflict. Without immediate action, Yemen’s economy and vulnerable populations face dire consequences from climate change exacerbated by a fragile humanitarian situation. Investments in sustainable practices and renewable energy are vital for fostering resilience and paving the path towards sustainable recovery. With the collaborative efforts of the private sector and international community, Yemen has the opportunity to build a more resilient future despite the daunting challenges it faces.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
