LocationsEmpowering Yemeni communities through solar energy
November 2, 2025
Two children are reading under the glow of a gas lamp.
In the heart of Wadi Zar Village, Al Qabaitah District, Lahj a transformative initiative is providing solar power to families in need. The Empowering Yemeni Women Catalysing Renewable Energy Project, funded by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief) and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with local organization For All Foundation, is delivering clean, sustainable, and affordable energy directly to vulnerable families.
Overcoming challenges with renewable energy
Wadi Zar, with a population of 7,000, is a small village accessible by sandy roads and dirt tracks that can pose challenges for vehicular travel. Here, homes made of straw and mud reflect a lifestyle grounded in simplicity, but also in struggle. For years, women like Azara relied on oil-powered lanterns that emitted harmful smoke, endangering the health of users.
"Previously, we used to use battery-powered lamps, which we only used when necessary because we couldn't afford the cost of batteries," shares Azara.
The project distributed solar lanterns, which have positively impacted Azara and her family.
"This solar lantern helps us provide light when cooking, helps the children study and play in the evening, and keeps us safe from snakes and scorpions. My husband and I are also able to walk safely, as we are physically disabled."
After installing the solar lantern, the children can now read comfortably under its light.
As part of the project, 1,500 solar lanterns have been distributed in Wadi Zar—a step that is making homes safer, evenings brighter, and chores easier. This initiative demonstrates the power of clean, sustainable, and affordable solutions for vulnerable communities.
Empowering women, building sustainable futures
The project goes beyond providing lanterns. It is placing women at the center of renewable energy solutions by equipping 175 women with tools and training to use, assemble, and market products like solar ovens and lanterns.
Women are trained to assemble solar lanterns.
Participants are not only learning technical skills but also provided with the knowledge to start their own businesses.
Madleen shares, "In the production phase, we organized work teams with a unified goal: to create finished products through a complete production line. Every team member had a distinct role, contributing to the final outcome. This product not only helps ease the challenges faced by families but also provides us with the opportunity to learn a valuable new skill."
Distributing solar lanterns to communities in need in Wadi Zar Village.
A strategic partnership for resilience and sustainability
This project is the result of a strategic partnership between KSRelief and UNDP Yemen, a collaboration formed to address profound humanitarian and developmental challenges facing Yemen. By combining resources, expertise, and a commitment to local capacity building, KSRelief and UNDP are not only meeting critical needs but also driving sustainable change. A cornerstone of this collaboration is the recognition of women’s potential as solar entrepreneurs—empowering them to lead their families and communities toward resilience and self-reliance. This partnership is delivering renewable energy solutions while enhancing livelihoods, particularly for the most vulnerable. By equipping women with skills, resources, and opportunities, KSRelief and UNDP are highlighting the central role of women’s leadership and entrepreneurship in building a brighter, more sustainable future for Yemen.
Related
content
content
