Yemen confronts severe climate challenges exacerbated by ongoing conflict, with risks such as food insecurity and water scarcity highlighted in the World Bank’s CCDR. The report emphasizes urgent investments in climate-resilient initiatives and disaster management while noting potential economic losses without action. Collaborative efforts from the international community and private sector are essential to fortify Yemen’s path toward resilience and sustainable development.
On November 20, 2024, the World Bank Group unveiled the Yemen Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR), highlighting the country’s urgent need to address climate change amidst ongoing conflicts. Yemen suffers from increasing risks such as water shortages and food instability, exacerbated by the effects of rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns. The report warns that without immediate interventions, Yemen could experience a significant economic decline by 2040 due to these climate-related challenges, predicting a potential average GDP loss of 3.9%.
Despite these daunting circumstances, the CCDR presents avenues for enhancing resilience and ensuring sustainable growth through strategic investments in water management and climate-smart agriculture. Optimistic forecasts suggest that agriculture could increase in productivity by up to 13.5% from 2041 to 2050 if the right measures are adopted. However, the fishery sector faces severe risks, with projected losses of up to 23% by mid-century due to escalating sea temperatures.
According to Stephane Guimbert, World Bank Country Director for Egypt, Yemen, and Djibouti, “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 emphasizes that financial backing from the international community is essential for turning the tide in Yemen’s climate response efforts.
The report further stresses that disaster risk management is vital, particularly with increased occurrences of flash floods impacting urban populations and critical infrastructure. Additionally, the health implications of climate change could impose substantial costs, exceeding US$5 billion by 2050. Adopting a holistic approach that incorporates climate resilience into public health planning, especially for vulnerable demographics, is imperative.
Yemen’s potential for renewable energy can play a significant role in these efforts, helping decrease dependency on fossil fuels while fostering a more resilient infrastructure. Khawaja Aftab Ahmed, IFC’s Regional Director for the Middle East, stated, “The private sector has a critical role to play in addressing Yemen’s pressing development challenges.” He emphasized the importance of creating an inviting investment climate to attract necessary funding for climate resilience initiatives.
The CCDR advocates for flexible decision-making informed by risk factors to adapt climate actions effectively to the evolving political situation in Yemen. By utilizing a scenario-based strategy, the report aligns investment actions with the prospects of peace or escalation of conflict, maximizing potential benefits for the country’s future.
Lastly, the CCDR serves as a vital tool for integrating climate and development strategies, guiding investments towards significant impacts on both greenhouse gas emissions reduction and adaptation. It aims to foster collaboration between governments, private sectors, and international partners to fulfill Yemen’s development goals under challenging circumstances.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, making the nation particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. With increasing challenges such as water scarcity and food insecurity, it has become imperative to explore sustainable investment pathways that address both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term resilience strategies. The World Bank’s CCDR offers a comprehensive overview of the climate-related challenges Yemen faces, alongside potential measures for recovery and sustainable development.
In summary, the Yemen Country Climate and Development Report outlines critical challenges posed by climate change amid ongoing conflict. With rising temperatures and frequent weather extremes threatening food and water security, urgent action and investment are required. The report emphasizes the need for international support, disaster management integration, and the potential of renewable energy to create a resilient future. A flexible approach to investments, influenced by Yemen’s political landscape, is crucial for achieving lasting solutions and sustainable recovery.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
