The UAE Red Cross has stepped up its activity in helping Yemen in the following areas: education, health, security, infrastructure and housing.
Between April 2015 and November 2017, assistance to Yemen from the UAE amounted to 9.4 billion dirhams ($ 2.56 billion).
The Yemeni health care system has been hit hard by the war, which resulted in a serious outbreak of cholera in the country. The country lacks vital medicines, medical personnel and equipment.
According to Nasser Baum, Minister of Health of Yemen, the UAE played an important role in limiting the spread of cholera, including sending 100 tons of medicines.
The Emirates also provided $ 100 million to combat the epidemic. 10 containers of cholera medication were donated by the government of the World Health Organization through centers in the UAE.
In 2017, the Red Cross also assisted in the implementation of the state program for the fight against malaria in Yemen, sending 100 thousand insecticide-treated bed nets.
The organization repaired hospitals, built new facilities, delivered ambulances and medical equipment.
For example, the organization of the Red Cross in the UAE opened a hospital in El Najdain, Hadramaut, a hospital in Khizhra, a hospital in Ataka and Mokha. The UAE government has assisted in the reconstruction of other medical facilities throughout the country.
In addition, the Red Cross opened the first free surgical camp in the Ataka area and assisted in the implementation of a campaign to immunize children by highlighting solar-powered refrigerators. WHO also provided 20 ambulances.
In Yemen, armed conflict has been going on for about three years. The Saudi-led coalition, of which the UAE is a member, fights with the rebels, supporting the army of President Yemen Abd-Rabba Mansour Hadi, recognized by the international community.
As a result of the conflict, more than 10 thousand people died, hunger in the country, and the capital of Yemen, Sana'a, is still controlled by the Hussites.
However, the UAE has done much to alleviate the humanitarian crisis.
With regard to education, in 2017, the UAE authorities built and renovated many schools. Four academic halls with 200 seats were opened at the University of Aden, projectors and computers were transferred to the university. Hundreds of buses have been allocated to Yemeni schools and universities to transport students, especially those living in remote rural areas. As part of a new initiative called the School Bag, school uniforms were distributed to many needy Yemeni families.
The UAE also provided significant assistance in developing the infrastructure of Yemen. During the year, hundreds of infrastructure and housing projects were launched as part of this program. For example, a thermal power station was restored in Al Makhe and an agreement was signed to restore one hundred and twenty megawatt power plants.
Agreements were also reached on dozens of projects aimed at improving water infrastructure, including drilling wells in many areas.
We remind you that in December, former President of Yemen Ali Abdullah Saleh was killed. This happened a few days after the announcement of the breakdown of all ties with the Hussites and the intention to reconsider relations with the coalition subject to a ceasefire. Currently, the coalition is increasing the onslaught of the Hussite stronghold in Saad, while moving along in Sana'a.
