New York, October 20, 2024 – In a significant step towards empowering women in Yemen, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) signed a cooperation agreement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The agreement, which aims to enhance the role of Yemeni women in renewable energy projects, was formalized by Dr. Hana Omar, Director of the Partnerships and International Relations Department at KSrelief, and Abdullah Al-Dardari, UNDP Assistant Secretary General and Director of the Regional Office for Arab States.
The signing ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah, Advisor to the Royal Court and KSrelief Supervisor General, as well as UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner. This collaborative initiative is set to benefit 21,375 women, with a budget allocation of $2,255,000 dedicated to the project.
Under the terms of the agreement, a total of 375 small-scale projects will be launched to produce and market solar-powered household appliances, including lanterns, stoves, and traditional ovens known as tandoors. These projects will not only generate renewable energy solutions but also provide training for 375 women, enabling them to produce these essential products utilizing solar technology.
Additionally, the initiative aims to offer alternative energy sources to needy families and displaced individuals, addressing pressing energy needs in the region while promoting sustainable practices. By focusing on renewable energy, the project aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and support communities in transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
This agreement is part of KSrelief's broader initiative to empower women in Yemen, equipping them with the necessary resources and skills to identify income-generating opportunities and improve their socio-economic status within Yemeni society. By fostering women's involvement in renewable energy projects, the program not only enhances their independence and livelihood but also contributes to the overall development of their communities.
As the project unfolds, it is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of many women and families in the Hadramaut and Lahj governorates, reinforcing the importance of gender equity in sustainable development and humanitarian efforts.