Novo Nordisk in Yemen

Improving the livelihoods and resilience for conflict-affected and vulnerable women and youth in Yemen

Yemen is the poorest country in the Middle East. The protracted conflict of over 7 years in the country has meant resources and assets are significantly depleted, reducing the capacity to cope of vulnerable communities. 4.3 million people have been internally displaced and basic services have become almost non-existent. Due to these conditions poverty and hunger have risen, with 31.9 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in March 2022. Pre-existing vulnerabilities have deepened, and an increasing number of people in the population are vulnerable to shocks. Economic opportunities and livelihoods are also limited, forcing communities to fall back on negative coping mechanisms to survive.

The project

The project focuses on internally displaced people and host communities in the Al Ma'afer and Ash Shamayatayn districts of Taiz Governorate in the Southwestern part of Yemen. Those living in this area are particularly vulnerable, lacking employment and food security. Oxfam’s work develops the resilience and builds livelihoods among women and youth in the Muhamasheen minority group, the most marginalized in Yemen. Women and youth are the focus of our activities as they have restricted livelihood opportunities, women in Yemen suffer from deeply rooted gender inequality. We train women and youth and provide cash grants to encourage income generating activities and small business development. In addition, we run capacity building sessions with communities, ensuring greater community cohesion, leadership, knowledge of rights, peaceful coexistence and gender inclusion.

This project is supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation with 5,000,000 DKK.

Country: Yemen