Marib, Yemen – On December 16, 2024, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) initiated a comprehensive SWOT analysis of urban centers in Marib Governorate, northeastern Yemen. This study is being carried out by the "Ghadak for Development" organization in collaboration with the Office of Planning and International Cooperation, as part of the flagship project aimed at enhancing institutional and economic resilience in Yemen (SIERY).

The study aims to assess and analyze the current situation of urban centers, supporting local authorities in adopting sustainable urban policies that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: "Making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable."

As part of the project, a field workshop will be organized, targeting 20 participants, including representatives from 16 government offices, as well as civil society organizations and the private sector. The goal is to build participants' capacities in urban planning and management through practical application of the SWOT analysis, overseen by specialized experts.

Salah Al-Saqaf, Director General of the Office of Planning and International Cooperation, stated in an interview with Barran Press that the launch of this second phase of training for the urban planning and management team is a continuation of efforts to establish the foundations for progress and transformation within the governorate and the country at large.

Al-Saqaf emphasized that the potential of Yemeni youth and local capabilities is comparable to that of countries that have recovered from war and become some of the strongest nations in the world. He noted that the cooperation between UNDP and local authorities serves as a model for coordinating international and local efforts to support urban development in the governorate. He affirmed that building resilient and sustainable cities will be a cornerstone in improving the lives of residents, especially given the exceptional circumstances facing the country.

This project is part of the UN's commitment to support the most vulnerable communities and empower them to overcome challenges related to displacement and economic crises by enhancing infrastructure and essential services needed for inclusive and sustainable urban development.