Sana'a: A workshop on the implementation mechanism for the groundwater recharge program, "Blessings from the Sky and Earth," was held on Monday in Sana'a to establish groundwater recharge projects. The event was organized by the General Authority for Water Resources and Infrastructure.
According to Yemen News Agency, the workshop, attended by officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Water Resources Authority, aimed to familiarize participants with the program's implementation mechanism. This initiative seeks to enhance groundwater reserves, mitigate the decline in water levels, and work toward increasing them.
Participants gained insights into utilizing rainwater and floodwaters through water harvesting systems, reducing flood damage, and transforming challenges into opportunities for groundwater replenishment. The goal is to optimize water resources to meet population needs, enhance water and food security.
During the opening session, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources Dr. Radwan Al-Rubai emphasized the collective responsibility to ensure water security for various purposes. He noted that water scarcity and difficulties in obtaining permits for industrial and investment projects are key drivers of rural-to-urban migration.
Dr. Al-Rubai explained that the workshop aligns with the directives of the leadership and the Supreme Political Council, as part of the government's program to meet population needs and strengthen water security. He highlighted the program's necessity amid increasing well-drilling requests and declining water levels.
The minister also mentioned the involvement of local authorities and business leaders in drafting proposals before submission to the government for approval. He expressed hope that the initiative would recharge groundwater, reduce agricultural costs, and address water scarcity.
Adel Bader, Deputy Minister of Electricity, Energy, and Water, praised the efforts of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Environment Protection Authority. He described the workshop as a milestone for the government's achievements, particularly in groundwater recharge.
Ali Qadi, Head of the Tihama Development Authority, stressed the need for water conservation policies and collective efforts to utilize rainwater and floods for groundwater recharge. He shared success stories of communities returning to rural areas after water levels rose significantly.
Eng. Abdulkarim Al-Sufiani, Deputy Head of the Water Resources Authority, underscored the workshop's importance, noting that Yemen receives a substantial amount of rainwater annually, yet only a small fraction is utilized. He emphasized the need to balance water extraction with development demands.