Saudi Program Delivers 62 Water Projects Across 14 Yemeni Governorates

The Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen (SDRPY) has delivered 62 development projects and initiatives supporting the water sector across 14 Yemeni governorates. The projects improve water distribution in urban and rural areas, expand access to safe drinking water, and strengthen water security.

 The projects now meet 100% of water needs in Al-Ghaydah, Al-Mahra Governorate and 50% in Socotra Governorate, and part of the needs in Aden Governorate.

 The program builds and upgrades water networks, connects water sources to users, and uses renewable energy to power wells and pumps, raising efficiency, cutting operating costs, and extending services to the areas most in need. In Socotra, an integrated water system diversifies sources and strengthens long-term supply. The program has also provided modern irrigation systems, including drip irrigation, to reduce water waste and support sustainable farming and food security.

 SDRPY trains staff and beneficiaries to manage water resources and operate and maintain water systems, and runs awareness campaigns to encourage sustainable water use and community participation.

 In January, the program announced a seawater desalination plant in Aden Governorate, which it describes as the first of its kind in Yemen. The plant aims to expand fresh water supplies and reduce the depletion of existing resources, and includes transferring Saudi expertise and training Yemeni desalination staff.

 SDRPY has implemented 300 development projects and initiatives across 16 Yemeni governorates in eight sectors, in coordination with the Yemeni government and local authorities.