Al-hodeidah: Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, Dr. Radwan Al-Rubaie, alongside Al-Hodeidah Governor Abdullah Attifi, inaugurated several agricultural and development projects in the governorate's southern district. These initiatives are funded by the Agricultural and Fisheries Projects and Initiatives Financing Unit, with a total investment of 344,533,000 Yemeni riyals.
According to Yemen News Agency, the projects encompass the rehabilitation of irrigation facilities and canals in Wadi Zabid at a cost of 189,867,000 riyals, the completion of the General Authority for Tihama Development buildings' rehabilitation in Zabid for 30,011,000 riyals, and the construction of six dual-purpose halls ('greenhouses/nurseries') in Zabid for 67,221,000 riyals. Additionally, community initiatives and economic empowerment in Zabid District are supported with 50,000,000 riyals, and a new well with a solar power system and irrigation network is being drilled in the Faza area of At-Tuhayat District for 23,983,000 riyals.
During the inauguration, Dr. Al-Rubaie remarked that these projects align with the directives of the revolutionary leadership and the Supreme Political Council, and are part of the Government of Change and Construction's agenda to bolster the agricultural sector, which is vital for food security and self-sufficiency. He noted that the projects serve as a practical measure to advance agricultural development by improving production conditions, stabilizing farmers, and addressing challenges posed by Yemen's ongoing conflict and blockade.
Dr. Al-Rubaie emphasized that the irrigation and agricultural facility projects will enhance water-use efficiency, increase land productivity, and expand cultivated areas in Tihama, aligning with sustainable development goals. He highlighted that supporting community initiatives and economic empowerment is crucial for enabling local communities to lead development projects and transform agriculture into a productive and investment opportunity, generating sustainable income for rural families.
Governor Attifi stated that these projects are a significant contribution to the national economy, highlighting the rehabilitation of the Tihama Development Authority facilities and the maintenance of irrigation canals in Wadi Zabid as strategic projects that will positively impact agricultural output in the southern zone. He underscored the economic and social dimensions of these projects, which will create employment opportunities, support farmers' livelihoods, and reinforce Tihama's role as a crucial food basket in Yemen.
Governor Attifi also noted the local authority's collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and relevant bodies to expand development projects across all districts, aiming to restore Al-Hodeidah's leading agricultural and economic status. He emphasized that implementing these projects with support from the Agricultural and Fisheries Projects and Initiatives Financing Unit reflects the resilience of Yemenis and their commitment to development despite challenges, demonstrating that development is a strategic priority alongside national defense.
Deputy Governor for Southern District Affairs Mutahhar Al-Hadi expressed that the projects will initiate a significant shift in agricultural development in the southern zone, improving farmers' livelihoods, bolstering food security, and opening new avenues for agricultural investment. Director of the Agricultural and Fisheries Projects and Initiatives Financing Unit, Yahya Al-Wada'i, affirmed that the financing is part of a comprehensive strategy to support productive sectors, highlighting the unit's dedication to adopting and implementing development initiatives that address local community needs and priorities.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Logistics Officer of the Fifth Military Region Brig. Gen. Hamzah Abu Talib, Chairman of the Fisheries Authority Hussein Al-Attas, local leaders, and representatives from agricultural and fisheries institutions and cooperative societies.