The Japanese government has announced a $2.4 million contribution to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations agency for sexual and reproductive health to support their humanitarian response in Yemen.

According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), this funding will provide access to life-saving reproductive health services and protection for over 120,000 vulnerable women and girls amidst the ongoing conflict in Yemen.

"Japan prioritizes supporting the most vulnerable Yemeni women and girls," said Kazuhiro Higashi, chargé d'affaires at the Japanese Embassy in Yemen. "Our partnership with UNFPA is crucial to providing them with appropriate assistance that meets their needs."

The contribution from the Japanese government will enable UNFPA to support six health facilities with essential medicines and supplies to provide emergency obstetric care and maternal health services, according to the UNDP statement.

Furthermore, the funding will support four safe spaces and shelters where survivors of violence and abuse can access psychosocial support, legal assistance, and income-generating opportunities.

The UNDP highlighted the immense need for health and protection services for women and girls in Yemen, noting that displacement and the breakdown of protection mechanisms have significantly increased the risk of gender-based violence.

The statement indicated that over 6.3 million Yemeni women and girls face increasing vulnerability in various forms, including harmful traditional practices. An estimated 5.5 million women of reproductive age face significant challenges in accessing reproductive health services.

The UNDP emphasized that less than half of births in Yemen are assisted by skilled medical personnel, and only one-third take place in health facilities due to severe shortages of essential medicines, supplies, and specialized staff.