The Saudi capital, Riyadh, witnessed the signing of a financing agreement for the project “Enhancing Water Security Using Renewable Energy in Marib Governorate.” The agreement was signed between the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen (SDRPY), the European Union, and the Selah Foundation for Development, as part of joint efforts to support the water sector and enhance the sustainability of basic services in Yemen.
Project Scope and Impact
The project targets three districts (Marib City, Marib Al-Wadi, and Harib) in Marib Governorate. Over an 18-month implementation period, it is expected to:
* Directly benefit over 368,000 people.
* Improve access to safe and sustainable water sources.
* Enhance the efficiency of the water system and elevate service levels for residents.
Key Technical Components
The project includes several critical infrastructure developments:
* Drilling 8 artesian wells for drinking water at depths of up to 280 meters, fully powered by solar energy.
* Rehabilitating 3 existing wells in the old Marib field using solar energy.
* Constructing 7 elevated water tanks of various capacities.
* Installing 8 public water distribution networks (from source to beneficiary) in rural areas.
Capacity Building and Sustainability
To ensure long-term viability, the project also focuses on human capital:
* Community Governance: Forming and training 8 community water committees on financial management, operation, and maintenance.
* Technical Training: Training local technical staff on the operation of solar energy systems to maximize efficiency and service continuity.
Official Representation
The agreement was signed in the presence of:
* Ali Hassan Bashmakh, Executive Director of the Selah Foundation for Development (The Implementing Agency).
* H.E. Ambassador Mohammed bin Saeed Al Jaber, General Supervisor of SDRPY.
* Patrick Simonnet, European Union Ambassador to Yemen.
Attendees emphasized the importance of integrated efforts and institutional coordination to guarantee tangible, long-term results for developmental projects.
Strategic Goals
This project is a result of cooperation between the EU, SDRPY, and Selah Foundation, aiming to improve living conditions through economic recovery and local resilience. By reducing reliance on fuel and lowering operational costs, the project will ensure consistent water pumping and higher water quality, ultimately fostering social stability in the region.
