Yemenis Face Soaring Prices Ahead of Ramadan

Tuesday 2 Feb 2025 |2 days ago
Yemenis Face Soaring Prices Ahead of Ramadan

Barran Press - Mohammed Al-Hothaifi

Yemeni families across the country are struggling with the rising cost of living as the local currency continues to plummet. The situation is worsening as the holy month of Ramadan approaches, traditionally a time of increased spending on food and other goods.

A decade of war has left many Yemenis without salaries, jobs, or income, making even essential items unaffordable. While families typically prepare for Ramadan with special purchases, this year's economic crisis has dashed those hopes.

"Families are living in dire conditions," said activist Wafi Al-Hemiari to Barran Press. "People are depressed and distressed by the rising prices and high cost of living."  

Al-Hemiari emphasized the psychological impact, particularly in the besieged city of Taiz, where the combined effects of war and high prices have created a severe humanitarian crisis.

Taha Al-Rua'ini, a government employee, echoed these concerns. "The overall situation for Yemeni families is dire due to the ongoing war," he said. He described Taiz as being completely besieged, with residents unable to afford basic necessities due to the collapsing Riyal.
Al-Rua'ini attributed the "miserable" conditions to the widening gap between incomes and purchasing power, a problem that will only intensify with the arrival of Ramadan and the expected surge in prices.  He called on the political leadership to take responsibility for the suffering of Yemeni citizens, especially in Taiz, which has endured a decade of war and siege, leaving its residents in desperate need.

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