Sana’a, Yemen – Alkuraimi Islamic Microfinance Bank has committed to support a strengthened COVID-19 Response in Yemen, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), World Health Organisation (WHO), and the Ministry of Public Health.

In a nation marred by war and experiencing continued devastation across its economic, health, education, and public service sectors, the compounding effect of the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to reverse development gains, create further separation in its governance and rule of law systems, and cause widespread health emergencies and death.

Through this public-private partnership, UNDP, WHO, and Alkuraimi Islamic Microfinance Bank aim to strengthen health systems to respond to the virus outbreak, by supporting national efforts to contain the spread and lay the foundation for recovery and resilience against future shocks. The bank has pledged US$ 600,000 to launch initiatives across Aden, Hodeidah, Sana’a, and Taiz, specifically prioritizing:

• Improved healthcare waste management;
• Provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs);
• Test and tracing sample transportation; and
• Hazard pay for frontline healthcare workers.

In Yemen, only half of all healthcare facilities are in operation and there is an immanent risk of other infectious disease outbreaks – including cholera, malaria, dengue fever, and Chikungunya. As the already struggling healthcare system diverts resources toward the COVID-19 response, close to nine million people may lose access to non-COVID healthcare services and support. 

As the country tempers with this crisis within a crisis, the potential knock-on effects of the pandemic on the economy, demands the engagement of Yemen’s private and financial sectors. This partnership between UNDP, WHO, and Alkuraimi Islamic Microfinance Bank represents a new wave of cooperation and the potential for diversified and sustainable development financing in one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

***

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.