Yemeni premier highlights severe child malnutrition crisis
Internally displaced Yemenis whose camp was ravaged by fire two days earlier receive food aid in the village of al-Durayhimi, on the southern edge of the flashpoint Red Sea port city of Hodeida, July 19, 2021. (AFP Photo)
Yemeni Prime Minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak announced Sunday that 50% of Yemeni children suffer from chronic malnutrition.
According to the official Saba news agency, the statement was made during an event in Aden commemorating World Population Day, which was observed on July 11.
Population demographics, economic strain
Bin Mubarak outlined the demographic challenges facing Yemen, noting that 45% of the population is under 16 years old and 65% are of working age.
He stressed that the government’s vision prioritizes investment in the populace as a key resource, despite significant financial and economic pressures.
“The seriousness of these figures necessitates serious engagement, a high level of responsibility and prioritizing them in all plans, programs and spending,” he stated.
Bin Mubarak also highlighted that 21% of children in Yemen are stunted because of malnutrition.
Impact of ongoing conflict
The Yemeni Prime Minister pointed to the ongoing conflict as a primary factor exacerbating the country’s humanitarian crisis.
The war, waged by the Houthi group, has deprived the Yemeni people of benefiting from their resources.
The conflict, which began nearly 10 years ago, involves government forces supported by a Saudi-led Arab military coalition and Houthi forces backed by Iran, who have controlled several provinces and the capital, Sanaa, since September 2014.
Yemen’s severe economic crisis has been further intensified by the cessation of oil exports in October 2022, following attacks by the Houthis on oil ports in government-controlled areas.
This has significantly impacted the country’s economy and exacerbated the financial strain on the government.
Humanitarian aid, international support
With a population of approximately 32 million, most of whom require humanitarian aid, Yemen is facing a dire need for international support.
Previous U.N. reports have highlighted the critical need for aid to address the widespread malnutrition and economic hardships faced by the Yemeni population.
