I cannot say for certain whether this emerging generation will survive the medium-term consequences of the crises in which they find themselves trapped. The challenges they face are deeply entrenched, and it remains uncertain if they will overcome them. The metaphorical significance of the color yellow, as understood by psychologists who have studied its impact on their peers affected by Hepatitis and Leukemia, or those exposed to bombings, airstrikes, and the daily struggle of fetching water in yellow jerry cans in Sana'a's streets, is yet to be determined. What is disheartening is that international reports have highlighted that approximately 4.5 million Yemeni children live in homes where access to a reliable water source is severely lacking. The situation is concerning, and the future remains uncertain for these vulnerable children.
In a long queue, Mohammed Bandar (12 years old) waits for his turn to fill approximately seven jerry cans of water, each with a capacity of 20 liters. This amount roughly matches his family's daily water consumption. He waits near a nearby water source in Al-Fawaris neighborhood, located in the Sa'awan zone, which is partially under the jurisdiction of the capital municipality and partially under the administrative authority of the Bani Hushaish district in Sana'a province.
Mohammed often leaves school at various times to ensure he can transport water before it runs out from the storage tank. Many times, he is required to go to a relatively distant well on the outskirts of the neighborhood (such as the Al-Wushah well). Mohammed's daily arduous task embodies the struggles of Yemenis with water scarcity and reflects the future of life in the capital city as a whole.
The Sana'a Basin comprises 22 sub-basins and encompasses nine districts, including the capital municipality. Its total area does not exceed 32.9 square kilometers. Unfortunately, the basin has been witnessing a significant decline in its annual water levels, with a range of 2 to 6 meters. According to a reputable source from the General Authority for Water Resources, this decline can be attributed to various factors, such as the rapid population growth in the capital and the increasing number of dug wells surrounding the basin. Currently, there are 18,500 wells, a notable increase from the previous 13,000 wells, with an additional 5,500 wells. Interestingly, more than 6,000 of these wells are concentrated in the Bani Hushaish district. The source, who wishes to remain anonymous, provided this insight into the situation emphasizing that more than 6,000 of these wells are indeed located in the Bani Hushaish district. This concentration of wells in that particular district further exacerbates the strain on the water resources in the Sana'a Basin.
A paradoxical gap between two contrasting realities.
The contradiction between water scarcity and the thirst of the ancient historical capital of the Arabian Peninsula, Sana'a, is indeed a significant challenge. International reports have estimated that the demand for water in the region will increase by up to 120% by the year 2050. This alarming projection highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to address the water crisis in Sana'a. Efforts should be focused on sustainable water management practices, such as promoting water conservation, implementing efficient irrigation techniques, and exploring alternative water sources. It is crucial to prioritize the preservation and availability of water resources to meet the growing demand and ensure the future sustainability of the capital city.
Mohammed Bandar, the young child who has experienced a personal water crisis since his early childhood, struggles to comprehend the magnitude of the situation around him. The alarming depletion of groundwater in the Sana'a Basin foretells an impending drought. This basin encompasses 22 sub-basins, spanning across nine districts, including the capital municipality while its total area does not exceed 32.9 square kilometers. Unfortunately, the basin has witnessed a significant decline in its annual water levels, with a range of 2 to 6 meters. A reliable source from the General Authority for Water Resources has attributed this decline to various factors. The rapid population growth in the capital, coupled with the increasing number of dug wells surrounding the basin, currently totaling 18,500 wells compared to the previous 13,000 wells, with an additional 5,500 wells, are among the primary causes of this dire situation. The source, who wishes to remain anonymous, highlighted during an interview with "Khuyut" that more than 6,000 of these wells are situated in the Bani Hushaish district, renowned for its grape and Qat cultivation. The source confirmed that a significant portion of the well water is allocated for irrigating Qat crops, as there has been a substantial expansion in its cultivation in recent years. The extraction of water from the basin has exceeded the natural replenishment rates by a factor of five, indicating a worsening depletion of water resources and increased pressure in the area.
The consumption rate of groundwater for Qat cultivation in the Sana'a Basin is alarmingly high, reaching up to 40% of the total extracted water. This can be attributed to the extensive expansion of Qat farming and the prevalent use of flood irrigation techniques by farmers to irrigate their Qat trees.
The source further highlighted that in a country facing similar water scarcity challenges like Yemen, such as Jordan, the number of artesian wells does not surpass 4,000 wells. This stark contrast underscores a significant disparity in the development and implementation of water policies between the two countries.
Moreover, the source also mentioned a report released by the United Nations on March 23, 2023, which highlighted that the depth of wells in Yemen ranges from 600 to 1200 meters. These depths are dangerously close to the final water layers in the basin. This stands in stark contrast to countries facing similar water scarcity challenges to Yemen, where the depth of wells typically reaches around 200 meters. This significant disparity indicates the severity of the water crisis in Yemen and the urgent need for effective water management strategies.
In the midst of this exacerbated groundwater depletion, the per capita share of water in normal conditions does not exceed 86 cubic meters. It is expected to further decrease to 55 cubic meters by the year 2030. This quantity is significantly lower than the annual threshold for absolute water scarcity, which stands at 500 cubic meters per person globally. The alarming disparity emphasizes the dire water scarcity situation in Yemen and the urgent need for sustainable water management practices.
A Race to the Bottom
The situation described seems to indicate a troubling trend in Yemen's water sector. It appears that a significant number of drilling rigs have entered the country under illegal circumstances, possibly as a result of collusion. These rigs are reportedly owned by influential individuals, investors, and private companies, rather than being under state ownership. The source also mentioned that despite receiving over 1,500 drilling requests annually, unregulated drilling activities, such as digging new wells or deepening existing ones, continue unabated. This unchecked drilling activity raises concerns about the sustainability and management of Yemen's water resources. It underscores the urgent need for effective regulation and oversight to prevent further exploitation and ensure the equitable and sustainable use of water in the country.
Mustafa Al-Shihari, the General Director of Water Resources in Sana'a Capital and Sana'a Governorate, recently discussed the issue of unregulated groundwater exploitation in certain districts. According to Al-Shihari, the districts of Nahm, Bani Hushaish, and Arhab have become significant areas where random well drilling is taking place without proper oversight. He expressed concern over the lack of cooperation between the security and judicial authorities in these areas, as well as their failure to work with his agency to hold violators accountable and regulate unlicensed drilling rigs.
Al-Shihari estimated that there are more than 100 rotary and percussion rigs operating without licenses in these districts. He further warned that unless action is taken to address this issue, the number of unlicensed rigs is likely to increase significantly in the future due to the deteriorating security situation and ongoing divisions. "This situation poses a serious threat, as it allows for numerous violations that can be considered crimes against both the citizens and the nation". Al-Shihari emphasized that the consequences of this uncontrolled exploitation of groundwater will soon become catastrophic if not effectively addressed.
The issue of water depletion in Yemen has been neglected or overlooked by various authorities for multiple reasons over the past few decades. Despite the enactment of Water Law No. 33 of 2002 and its subsequent amendments, including No. 41 of 2006, the implementing regulations for the law were not issued until 2011, the same year when popular protests erupted, followed by a series of events and consequences that led to a lack of clarity and vision in the country's public policies, favoring the intensification of conflicts among different parties. This reflects the ongoing controversy surrounding this issue within government circles and among major beneficiaries.
Furthermore, there is clear inconsistency between the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and the Ministry of Water and Environment. Shortly after the establishment of the latter in 2003, the Ministry of Agriculture withdrew the irrigation sector from the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Water and incorporated it into its own responsibilities. This conflicting approach only adds to the complexity of the situation and hinders effective water management efforts.
The consequences extend beyond the shortcomings in water policies and conflicting jurisdictions. The growing adoption of solar energy by more than 30% of farmers in the sandstone area, particularly in the mud regions of the Sana'a basin, such as Bani Hushaish, Arhab, and Hamdan, presents an additional challenge that worsens the impending water scarcity. The affordability, ease of operation, and low maintenance costs of solar energy make it an appealing alternative for irrigation and pumping purposes. Farmer Dahan Al-Aqari's experience is a powerful example of the trend towards solar energy adoption. In 2018, he faced immense challenges in obtaining costly diesel fuel to operate his irrigation pumps. The exorbitant fuel prices greatly diminished the profitability of his Qat and grape crops, forcing him to seek alternative solutions. This ultimately led him to switch to solar energy as a more sustainable and economically viable option. By embracing solar energy, not only did Farmer Al-Aqari alleviate his reliance on expensive fuel, but he also contributed to the positive environmental impact by reducing carbon emissions and promoting a greener approach to agriculture. His decision to transition to solar energy exemplifies the potential of renewable energy sources in addressing the water crisis while simultaneously benefiting farmers' economic well-being and preserving the environment.
Al-Aqari's statement in an interview with "Khuyut" highlights the growing trend among farmers in the Bani Hushaish area and other parts of Sana'a Governorate towards adopting solar energy systems. He mentions that the installation cost of these systems varies depending on factors such as the number of solar panels and the brand quality. However, he emphasizes that the overall cost remains lower compared to using diesel fuel. Al-Aqari expresses gratitude that their area is flat rather than mountainous, as this geographical advantage greatly benefits them in harnessing solar energy. He does note that on cloudy days, there may be minor limitations in the operational efficiency of the system.
Mr. Mohsen Al-Eini put forward a proposed law that aimed to prohibit Qat production in favor of utilizing government-owned lands for "Awqaf" purposes. Additionally, the law suggested banning Qat chewing in government offices and implementing a 30% increase in taxes and financial returns on Qat. However, it is widely speculated that Al-Eini's unwavering commitment to this project played a significant role in his subsequent forced resignation. Following his departure, specifically in 1991, the government passed Law 70, which significantly reduced the taxes imposed on Qat cultivation to a mere 10%. This reduction in taxes resulted in a notable resurgence in Qat cultivation, exacerbating the issue of groundwater depletion caused by this widely consumed crop.
A Power or necessity
"Our livelihood is deeply rooted in agriculture, as it heavily relies on the presence of water for irrigating a diverse range of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and the renowned grapes that Yemen, especially the Bani Hushaish region, is celebrated for. Specifically, grape cultivation necessitates regular watering, typically every three to four days during the summer and every two weeks or so in the fall or winter. However, it is important to note that these watering intervals are not fixed rules but rather subject to the judgment of the farmers and the specific moisture requirements of the soil. Each farmer determines the appropriate irrigation schedule based on their knowledge and understanding of the land". Al Aqari added.
Furthermore, Al-Aqari continued, "Grape cultivation, along with vegetable farming, is limited to specific seasons and requires significant care and attention until the harvest. This is in contrast to Qat cultivation, which offers us a profitable economic opportunity to fulfill our basic needs. The Qat harvest cycle is relatively short, usually lasting no more than two weeks, allowing for quick returns. Moreover, the availability of fertilizers and pesticides contributes to its rapid growth and productivity. Additionally, considering the high daily consumption of Qat among Yemenis, it further strengthens its economic viability for us."
Furthermore, reports indicate that a significant amount, estimated to be up to 40%, of the groundwater extracted from the Sana'a Basin is consumed by Qat cultivation. This can be attributed to the expansion of Qat farming and the farmers' reliance on flood irrigation methods to water their crops. The World Health Organization has highlighted in its reports that Qat chewing is prevalent among 90% of Yemeni males and 50% of Yemeni females, making it an integral part of Yemeni popular culture.
Despite a few efforts to address this issue, such as the proposal by Mohsen Al-Eini, the former Prime Minister of the Republic of Yemen, to ban Qat production on government-owned lands in favor of using them for religious endowments (awqaf), prohibiting Qat chewing in government offices, and implementing a 30% increase in taxes and financial returns on Qat, it is believed that his persistence in pushing for these measures played a significant role in his subsequent forced resignation. Following that, in 1991, the government issued Law 70, which reduced the taxes on Qat cultivation to a mere 10%, leading to a resurgence in its cultivation and exacerbating the depletion of groundwater resources.
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Measures ends where they start
Saleh Abosst, a concerned individual, expresses his frustration with the ongoing challenges in reducing dependence on groundwater in Yemen. In a conversation with Khuyut, he highlights the lack of government support and coordination among agricultural and water authorities as the primary reasons for the failure of these attempts. "We have been striving to completely reduce our reliance on groundwater, but our efforts have faced consistent obstacles," Saleh Abosst shares with Khuyut. "The lack of support from the government and the absence of effective coordination between the relevant agricultural and water authorities are the main factors contributing to this failure." He said.
In a passionate tone, Abosst continues his statement: "Go to the Mukhtan Dam in the village of Khirbet Sa'wan Bani Hushaish and witness the significant damage in this dam, which causes water to leak immediately upon filling, without any action being taken by those responsible. Ask about the treatment plants that are supposed to be a substitute to reduce the high demand for groundwater; where are they?! Inquire about the failed dam and barrier projects, and you will realize that as farmers, we are helpless. We become potential victims due to the failure of marketing and storage regulation for our agricultural products, which we work on throughout the season, only to come out with the best possible outcome, if not losing our capital. And that is why, over the years, Qat has become a viable choice for our livelihoods to continue."
Abosst's fervent words shed light on the challenges faced by farmers in Yemen. He draws attention to the deteriorated state of the Mukhtan Dam and the absence of treatment plants, which should have provided an alternative to reduce reliance on groundwater. The failure of dam and barrier projects further exacerbates the plight of farmers, leaving them feeling helpless.
Abosst expresses frustration with the lack of regulation and support in marketing and storage for agricultural products. This lack of coordination and assistance puts farmers at risk of potential losses, despite their hard work throughout the season. As a result, many farmers turn to Qat cultivation as a means of sustaining their livelihoods due to its profitability.
The dams serve to replenish groundwater and meet the irrigation and domestic water needs in many regions. However, in Sana'a, the capital city, the situation appears to be less than encouraging as it is threatened by water scarcity and drought. The management and distribution of water in the city pose significant challenges, making the existing dams insufficient to meet the growing water demands.
This decline in water levels poses a significant challenge for the sustainability of water resources in the basin. It affects the availability of water for various purposes, including irrigation, domestic use, and industrial activities. The decreasing water levels highlight the urgent need for effective water management strategies and conservation measures to ensure the long-term viability of the Sana'a Basin's water resources.
Efforts should be made to promote water conservation practices, such as implementing efficient irrigation techniques, reducing water wastage, and encouraging the use of alternative water sources. Additionally, sustainable water management practices, including the implementation of water recycling and reclamation projects, can help mitigate the impact of water scarcity in the Sana'a Basin.
In the given context, there have been allegations against the "Al-Sa'ila" project, which is a paved canal that traverses the capital city of Sana'a from south to north, covering a distance of approximately 3300 meters. It has been accused of obstructing the replenishment of the Sana'a Basin's water. However, these accusations have been refuted by Engineer Aref Al-Shuja', who has played a pivotal role in managing, implementing, and designing various "Al-Sa'ila" projects. He has emphasized that solutions for groundwater replenishment necessitate political decisions and financial support to safeguard the groundwater resources.
Regarding the stone quarrying, it essentially refers to the dismantling of the city's flood protection project. It is important to acknowledge that there are extensive underground channels and networks, stretching over 120 kilometers, that were established by the Yemeni government. However, there are individuals who have fabricated the notion that the "Al-Sa'ila" project is an American conspiracy that needs to be demolished. Such claims may pose a risk of causing further damage to the already deteriorating eastern part of the city.
On the other hand, there is one sewage treatment plant in Sana'a, managed by Mohammad Al-Areeqi, the director of the plant in the capital city. He mentions that the plant has faced numerous challenges since the start of the war, and in previous years, it almost came to a halt due to fuel shortages.
According to Al-Areeqi's interview with "Khuyut," he indeed highlights the main challenge they currently face at the sewage treatment plant, which is the insufficient water allocation per person. This scarcity of water allocation has a negative impact on the plant's operations, resulting in a reduction in the quantity of treated water produced. The limited water supply poses significant difficulties for the proper functioning of the plant and hinders its ability to treat wastewater effectively. Addressing this issue and ensuring an adequate water allocation is crucial to maintain the plant's efficiency and provide sufficient treated water for various purposes.
Further, Al-Areeqi emphasizes the importance of effectively utilizing the treated water for irrigation purposes. By doing so, it would significantly alleviate the high demand for groundwater resources in the area. This approach would contribute to the sustainable management of water resources, as it reduces the reliance on groundwater, which is already under immense strain. Implementing such measures would not only ensure the availability of water for agricultural needs but also help preserve and sustain the groundwater reserves for future generations. It is crucial to prioritize the responsible and efficient use of water resources to ensure their long-term viability.
The scarcity of water resources and the ongoing conflict have exacerbated the situation, leading to a critical water shortage in the region. The already limited water supply is further strained by factors such as population growth and insufficient infrastructure for water management. This impending drought poses a significant threat to the livelihoods and well-being of the people in Sana'a, as access to clean water becomes increasingly challenging. Urgent measures need to be taken to address this issue and ensure the sustainable management and conservation of water resources in the Sana'a Basin.
