Water for vulnerable groups in Yemen

The Akhdam community in Yemen are among the country’s most vulnerable groups as they are marginalised from society and struggle to access basic services. Originally from the Horn of Africa, the Akhdam people have been fleeing hardships in their homeland and resettling in Yemen for more than a century. They live in poor urban and rural areas and are excluded from most social programmes. In the Al Selo Province in southwest Yemen, around 16,000 Akhdam people live in the Al-Duba districts where they have no access to clean water.

In 2008 Islamic Relief completed a three-year project to improve the health of the Akhdam and wider community in Al Selo by providing access to safe water and better healthcare facilities. We constructed a new health clinic and restored two existing clinics, provided basic medical equipment, brought water to homes in six villages and installed water pumps in mountainous areas. We also raised awareness of good health and hygiene practices and ensured the community were trained in how to maintain the new facilities. Training was also provided in medical courses such as midwifery and nursing for 15 women living in remote areas.

Islamic Relief’s support was the first experience of inclusion in a social programme for the marginalised Akhdam people. With better access to healthcare and safe water the community will face fewer health risks and be able to focus on securing their livelihoods and improving their lives.