LocationsWomen in Al-Qabaitah are powering their future with solar energy
August 27, 2025
Two participants ensure a solar oven is crafted with precision.
In the rolling hills of Al-Qabaitah District, Lahj Governorate, Yemen, power from the sun is supporting women to boost their livelihoods and provide valuable resources for their communities.
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 providing women with the tools necessary to harness the power of solar energy.
The project has a bold, dual-purpose mission: addressing the growing energy needs of vulnerable communities through innovative solar energy solutions and empowering women to become central figures in the burgeoning renewable energy industry. With vocational training in solar technology, life skills, and business acumen, women in Al-Qabaitah are empowered to become solar entrepreneurs, technicians, and innovators.
Providing new opportunities
This project has trained 175 women on using, assembling, and marketing solar products, such as lanterns and traditional ovens (Tanurs), while providing practical guidelines and support for business creation. Participants have been provided with production kits and receive financial incentives for each solar item they successfully produce.
Nearly 3,000 solar lanterns and 18,000 solar-based ovens have been produced to be distributed to vulnerable households, including those of internally displaced persons (IDPs). These contributions are going beyond meeting immediate energy needs, and enhancing sustainable local economies.
In Al-Qabaitah, women work to produce solar ovens, preparing them for community distribution.
Women as community innovators
Amani, a project participant, reflects on how the training and support has ignited her ambitions: "This project has given me determination and the confidence to work and enter the job market. It will improve the lives of needy families in our community. I now have skills I can use to support myself and help others in my district."
For Randa, solar training was the launchpad to a newfound sense of purpose: "Through this training, I have gained skills in production, business management, and marketing that I never knew were possible. I will use this knowledge to build my own project—one that benefits not only me and my family, but also brings safe, affordable solar products to my community in Al-Qabaitah and beyond."
Sadiquh dreams of innovation: "My ambition is to become an innovator in renewable energy. This project has not only given me technical skills but also the tools to dream and act. I aspire to develop projects that improve the quality of life for myself, my community, and future generations."
For Aisha, the journey is as meaningful as the destination: "Learning alongside other women has been inspiring. The spirit of teamwork, shared learning, and mutual support has given me great confidence and hope for the future. Together, we are turning solar energy into a force for transformation.
Women manufacture solar ovens in Al-Qabaitah District.
A catalyst for sustainable progress
What sets this initiative apart is its focus on long-term sustainability and inclusivity. By empowering women through training related on solar energy products, it not only bridges gender gaps but also lays the foundation for greener, more self-reliant communities in Yemen.
By realizing the potential of women as solar entrepreneurs, KSrelief and UNDP have partnered on to realize a shared vision of fostering sustainable development and empowering vulnerable communities in Yemen. KSrelief is committed to delivering support that combines renewable energy solutions and women’s empowerment to create lasting impact. By integrating innovative technologies such as solar energy, the partnership aims to enhance livelihoods and improve living conditions for the most vulnerable groups. Central to this collaboration is the empowerment of women, recognizing that supporting their skills, entrepreneurship, and leadership is vital for building resilient, self-reliant communities.
To learn more, visit the project page.
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