Sana'a:Residents of Akamat al-Maqab village in the al-Sharqi sub-district of Manakhah, Sana’a Governorate, have initiated a community-driven project to uproot 2,500 qat trees, replacing them with coffee trees. This effort is part of a broader movement to reduce qat cultivation in favor of more economically beneficial crops.
According to Yemen News Agency, Abdullah al-Marouni, head of the governorate’s development team, and his deputy, Saddam al-Fasih, highlighted that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote economically viable cash crops. They noted that this reflects a growing awareness within the community about the importance of advancing the agricultural sector by implementing policies that lead to sustainable development.
The initiative is seen as a crucial step in restoring the historical significance of Yemeni coffee, while also strengthening the national economy through self-reliant agricultural practices. Al-Marouni and al-Fasih emphasized that investing in high-value crops like coffee can enhance individual incomes and support comprehensive development.
Munir al-Kabsi, the district director, expressed the local authority's commitment to support these initiatives, ensuring that any challenges are addressed using available resources. Mohammed Al-Judawi, director of the Self-Help and Community Initiatives branch, praised the residents for their grassroots efforts, underscoring the importance of expanding cash and strategic crops, especially coffee, for economic and community benefits.
Hatem Al-Maqabi, the initiative’s supervisor, stated that this project aligns with leadership directives aimed at reducing qat cultivation and promoting crops that offer sustainable economic benefits. The residents of Akamat Al-Maqab village have expressed their readiness to pursue similar projects, reinforcing their support for state-led efforts towards agricultural development and food security.
