Sana'a: A meeting was held in Ibb Governorate on July 23, 2025, attended by Deputy Minister of Electricity, Energy and Water Adel Badr, Acting Governor of Taiz Ahmed Al-Masawi, and UNICEF Resident Representative in Yemen, Peter Hawkins, to discuss the water and sanitation needs of Taiz Governorate.
According to Yemen News Agency, the meeting focused on implementing Phase II of the project to operate wells in the Al-Hayma - Habeer area in Al-Ta'iziyah District. This phase is funded by UNICEF at a cost of $1 million and aims to benefit around 350,000 residents of Al-Houban, the city, and surrounding population centers.
An agreement was reached to supply 70,000 liters of diesel per month to the Taiz Local Water and Sanitation Corporation for three months starting July. This measure is intended to ensure the continued operation of the wells amid current country conditions.
The meeting also reviewed the 2025-2026 governorate plan for water and sanitation projects. Both UNICEF and local authorities expressed their commitment to supporting future project phases and facilitating implementation. This includes installing solar power systems and improving water networks and pumping mechanisms.
Deputy Minister Adel Badr and Acting Governor Ahmed Al-Masawi reaffirmed their commitment to easing project implementation in line with national directives to alleviate public suffering. Peter Hawkins commended the cooperation from the ministry and local authorities, confirming UNICEF's readiness to seek funding to complete the remaining project phases and ensure access to clean drinking water.