SDRPY Engages In UNCCD COP16 To Address Anti-Desertification Strategies For Yemen

The Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen (SDRPY) is actively engaging in the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP16). This significant event is being held from December 2 to 13 in Riyadh. It marks the largest gathering of UNCCD's 197 parties and is the first such meeting in the Middle East.

During this conference, SDRPY will host a session titled "Bridging the Gap: Aligning Yemen National Strategy, Donor Support, and Local Action in Anti-Desertification Efforts." This session aims to highlight comprehensive strategies to combat desertification in Yemen. The role of international donors in supporting Yemen's national strategy will also be discussed.

The session will stress integrated water security and support for anti-desertification efforts. It will promote community involvement, coordination among stakeholders, and partnerships for knowledge exchange. These elements are crucial for implementing effective joint initiatives against desertification.

Notable attendees include Saudi Ambassador to Yemen and SDRPY General Supervisor Mohammed bin Saeed Al Jaber, Yemeni Minister of Water and Environment Tawfiq Al-Sharjabi, and UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner. Also present will be Ayman Elhefnawi from UN-Habitat Saudi Arabia, UNICEF's Gulf Area representative Eltayeb Adam, and Selah Foundation for Development executive director Ali Bashmakh.

On December 11, SDRPY will join a discussion organized by the UNDP. This session will focus on SDRPY’s completed projects in water and agriculture sectors aimed at enhancing sustainable water sources and promoting sustainable food production.

Interactive Pavilion Showcasing Initiatives

SDRPY's participation includes an interactive pavilion that highlights its key projects and initiatives. This pavilion showcases efforts towards supporting sustainable development in Yemen. Visitors can learn about various projects that contribute to these goals.

The conference provides a platform for exchanging ideas on combating desertification globally. It emphasizes collaboration between nations and organizations to address environmental challenges effectively.

The event concludes with a focus on fostering partnerships that enhance sustainability efforts worldwide. Participants aim to create actionable plans that benefit affected regions like Yemen through coordinated global actions.

With inputs from SPA