Photo:
Yemen’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) project aims to strengthen institutional coordination and enhance policy, technical, and financial capacities across key sectors through conflict-sensitive approaches. It will build national capacity by improving access to climate risk and vulnerability data—including conflict analysis—while developing systems for adaptation monitoring and evaluation, a cross-sectoral climate finance strategy, and a dedicated NAP platform for knowledge sharing and awareness. By clearly defining adaptation priorities and advancing concept notes to mobilize climate finance, the project aims to support inclusive, resilient development and empower vulnerable communities, including women, children, and marginalized groups, to better withstand climate impacts.
The project was approved on 22 April 2025.
- National
- National Governments
- Climate Change Unit under Yemen’s Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE)
Yemen faces acute and interconnected climate risks, with the water sector at the center of its vulnerability. Extremely low per capita water availability—among the lowest globally—combined with increasing rainfall variability, recurrent floods, and prolonged droughts, is placing severe pressure on water resources for agriculture, domestic use, and ecosystem health. These challenges are compounded by fragmented governance, limited enforcement of water policies, and chronic underinvestment due to ongoing conflict. As a result, millions lack access to safe water and sanitation, while unsustainable groundwater extraction and damaged infrastructure continue to undermine resilience.
Building on these challenges, the NAP project places water resource management at the core of adaptation efforts, recognizing its critical link to food security, health, and livelihoods. The project aims to strengthen integrated water resource management, improve water infrastructure, and promote efficient and climate-resilient agricultural practices. It will also enhance institutional capacity and coordination across national and local levels, supporting more equitable water allocation and sustainable use. By reinforcing water systems as both a development priority and a driver of social cohesion, the project contributes to long-term resilience and stability.
The project also targets other highly climate-sensitive sectors, including agriculture, health, and coastal zones, where climate impacts are already undermining livelihoods and essential services. In agriculture, efforts will focus on promoting climate-smart practices, improving water use efficiency, rehabilitating degraded land, and strengthening value chains to enhance food security and incomes. In the health sector, the project will support climate-resilient healthcare systems, improved disease surveillance, and early warning mechanisms to better respond to climate-related health risks. In coastal areas, priorities include ecosystem restoration, sustainable fisheries management, and climate-resilient infrastructure to protect vulnerable communities and sustain livelihoods.
The NAP project is closely aligned with Yemen’s existing climate strategies and policy frameworks, including the National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA), Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC), National Water Sector Strategy and Investment Program (NWSSIP), Third National Communication (TNC), and the Technology Needs Assessment (TNA). It also builds on ongoing initiatives and institutional arrangements led by the Ministry of Water and Environment, the Environmental Protection Authority, and the National Climate Change Committee. By consolidating these efforts, strengthening coordination mechanisms, and advancing priority adaptation actions, the project aims to translate policy commitments into practical solutions while mobilizing climate finance and supporting inclusive, climate-resilient development across Yemen.
Outcome 3.1: Adaptation planning governance and institutional coordination strengthened
Outcome 3.2: Evidence basis produced to design adaptation solutions for maximum impact
Outcome 3.4: Adaptation finance increased