United States Provides Additional Assistance to Yemen

USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah speaks in Yemen. Credit: Hani Mohammed
USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah speaks in Yemen.
Credit: Hani Mohammed

USAID Administrator Shah visits Sana’a and Zinjibar during Yemen Trip

For Immediate Release

Friday, June 22, 2012
Public Information

WASHINGTON, D.C. - USAID Administrator Raj Shah visited Yemen June 19-21 and announced plans to provide up to $52 million dollars in additional assistance to Yemen, which would bring the total humanitarian and development assistance this year to $170 million dollars. On June 21st, Administrator Shah and U.S. Ambassador to Yemen Gerald Feierstein traveled to Zinjibar where they met with local government officials and humanitarian organizations to discuss the importance of delivering critical humanitarian assistance, restoring civilian authority and essential public services, and rebuilding war-torn infrastructure. 

The additional funding will provide immediate assistance to address the urgent humanitarian crisis across Yemen, support rehabilitation programs in conflict afflicted areas in the south (Lahj, Aden, and Abyan governorates), and bolster the Yemeni government and civil society during the National Dialogue and Yemen's ongoing political transition.

USAID Administrator Raj Shah reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting Yemen during its ongoing political transition and working with the Government of Yemen to help address both the immediate humanitarian needs and the long-term development challenges it faces. This additional assistance demonstrates the United States' commitment to a comprehensive and enduring partnership with the Yemeni people.

During Administrator Shah's visit, he also met with President Hadi, Foreign Minister al-Qirbi, multiple government ministers, private sector and civil society leaders, international donors, and humanitarian and development organizations.