The Yemen Country Climate and Development Report highlights urgent needs for climate-responsive investments to combat water scarcity and food insecurity deepened by ongoing conflict. Rising temperatures and extreme weather threaten vulnerable populations, potentially leading to significant economic declines by 2040. Strategic investments can foster resilience, but peacebuilding and international support are essential for sustainable recovery in Yemen.
Yemen is grappling with severe challenges stemming from a decade-long conflict exacerbated by climate change. The World Bank Group’s recently published Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR) emphasizes the urgent need for climate-responsive investments to address critical issues related to water scarcity, agricultural productivity, and disaster risk management within the context of ongoing hostilities. As Yemen experiences rising temperatures and erratic precipitation, climate hazards are increasingly affecting the most vulnerable populations, potentially leading to a decline in the nation’s GDP by 3.9% by 2040 if decisive action is not taken. Identifying strategic opportunities, the CCDR advocates for significant investments in water management and climate-smart agricultural practices, which could enhance crop yields by up to 13.5% in optimistic scenarios between 2041 and 2050. However, the fisheries sector is at risk, facing potential losses of up to 23% due to climate impacts. “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,” articulated Stephane Guimbert, World Bank Country Director for Egypt, Yemen, and Djibouti. The report insists that without efforts towards peacebuilding and substantial international commitments, Yemen’s long-term resilience to climate change will remain unaddressed. Though humanitarian assistance is crucial in helping households mitigate climate shocks, sustainable peace is necessary to unlock essential funding for climate resilience initiatives. Enhanced disaster risk management is vital, particularly due to the increased frequency of flash floods threatening urban infrastructure and fragile communities. Furthermore, the projected health costs attributed to climate-related issues could exceed US$5 billion by 2050, necessitating a focus on integrating climate resilience into public health planning for vulnerable demographics. Yemen’s immense renewable energy potential represents a crucial aspect of its climate adaptation and recovery strategies. By exploiting these resources, the nation can mitigate its dependence on fossil fuels while simultaneously enhancing its power infrastructure, which is fundamental for essential services in conflict-impacted areas. “The private sector has a critical role to play in addressing Yemen’s pressing development challenges,” remarked Khawaja Aftab Ahmed, IFC’s Regional Director for the Middle East. Flexibility in decision-making is paramount, allowing for tailored climate strategies that align with Yemen’s complex political environment. The scenario-based methodology of the report facilitates adaptation measures corresponding to whether peace is sustained or conflict escalates.
The World Bank’s Country Climate and Development Reports (CCDRs) seek to merge climate change and developmental considerations in afflicted regions like Yemen, affected by a compounding series of crises. Yemen is caught in a cycle of conflict while facing severe threats due to climate change, leading to possible economic declines and heightened vulnerabilities. The CCDR indicates that strategic climate investments can offer pathways for resilience and sustainable recovery amid adversity. While substantial humanitarian assistance is essential, the report emphasizes the need for ongoing conflict resolution to facilitate climate-focused funding and security enhancements.
In summary, the Yemen Country Climate and Development Report underscores the urgent need for a dual approach, addressing both climate resilience and ongoing conflict. Strategic investments in water security, agriculture, and renewable energy can significantly improve food security and economic prospects. However, these efforts must be complemented by peacebuilding initiatives to effectively tackle the intertwined challenges of climate change, poverty, and conflict. Future actions will be critical in determining Yemen’s path towards a sustainable and equitable recovery.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
