Thread by @AukeLootsma

Future generations of #Yemenis will continue to pay for consequences of the current conflict.
We need to break the cycle of war, humanitarian aid dependency, & development reversals in #Yemen before it is too late. We need to invest in green economic recovery now where possible.

Following the disappointing result of the UN pledging conference for #Yemen, I have been reflecting on what can be done now even during the conflict. I offer 5 thoughts in a thread.

1) we need achieve macro-economic stability to control the exchange rate and inflation. The looming famine is man-made and income-based. International technical support embedded in the CBY and replenishment foreign reserves are critical in this regard.

2) 90% of #Yemen 's food is imported leaving it extremely vulnerable to global shocks & dependent on foreign reserves. Increased local agricultural production (incl. coffee) & fisheries are essential to decrease this dependency & diversify the economy and earn foreign reserves.

3) Yemen is one of the most water stressed countries in the world. Water availability in Yemen is 150 cubic metres (m3) per person per year (the Middle East has an average of 1,250m3). Sustainable water management is crucial for agriculture and water supply to population.

4) Electricity: Yemen is one of the world’s most energy insecure countries. But it has vast untapped potential of renewable energy sources. In particular, solar, wind, and geothermal energy sources exist in abundance in Yemen and can be harnessed now. E.g. windmill park Mocha

5) Critical infrastructure: the Aden and Mukalla sea ports need to be fixed to facilitate trade and bring down the cost of imported goods, especially food commodities. A USD 50M investment in the ports will bring down the cost by more than USD 250M, a great ROI in any business.

Just some thoughts on what can be done now even in the midst of ongoing conflict. Investments in hope, dignity, & green recovery will certainly build a much stronger foundation for peace than continued dependence on humanitarian aid. #YemenCantWait We at @UNDPYemen are ready.