LocationsFor years, residents of Al-Akahel community in Al Maqaterah District, Lahj Governorate, Yemen, struggled to access clean water. Their water system was over forty years old, full of leaks, and barely functionable. The water was of poor quality and unreliable, and the high cost of diesel fuel made pumping water expensive. Families had no choice but to buy water at high prices or walk long distances to find safe drinking water.
Ahmed and Eisaa conduct routine checks to maintain an efficient water supply for 5,827 people. Al Maqaterah District, Lahj Governorate.
However, today, with support from the ERRY III Joint Programme through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and partners, funded by the European Union (EU) and the Government of Sweden, reliable water is available in Al-Akahel. A new solar-powered water system and pipeline now provides clean, affordable, and reliable water to 5,827 people.
Water was once a daily challenge
Ahmed works as the operation and maintenance officer for the new water project. He remembers how difficult life was before the new system.
"The old pipeline was falling apart," Ahmed explains. "There were so many leaks that we lost a lot of water before it even reached people. The water was dirty and unsafe for drinking. People had no choice but to buy expensive water or walk for hours to bring it from other areas. It was exhausting."
Water shortages were common, especially in the dry seasons. "Families would wait for days for water to be pumped," Ahmed shares. "Sometimes, we couldn’t run the pumps because diesel was too expensive."
For many families, the struggle for water was a daily reality. Eisaa, another community member and maintenance worker, remembers how hard it was before the project.
"I had to travel long distances just to wash my clothes because there wasn’t enough clean water at home," he says. "Drinking water was also a big problem. We were always worried about our health because the water wasn’t clean."
Ahmed ensures smooth solar system operation, providing uninterrupted water access. Al Maqaterah District, Lahj Governorate.
Solar energy brings sustainable water
The ERRY III Joint Programme introduced a solar-powered water system. This included:
- Installation of new water pipes to replace the old, leaking system.
- Solar panels to power the water pumps instead of expensive diesel.
With solar power, the system now runs all day without relying on costly fuel. Water is pumped faster, reaching more people in less time. With a significant drop in the cost of operating the system, clean water is more affordable for families.
"With the solar system, everything is easier," says Ahmed. "The pumps work smoothly, the costs are lower, and people finally have clean water."
Eisaa adds, "Before, we couldn’t even drink the water. Now, it’s fresh, clean, and available whenever we need it. This project didn’t just bring us water—it changed our lives."
A better future in Al-Akahel
With 1,500 households now getting regular access to clean water, the impact is life-changing. People can drink, cook, and wash with safe and reliable water. Families save money since they no longer have to buy expensive water. Health conditions have improved, and life is easier for everyone.
"The best part is that this system will last for a long time," Ahmed says. "We are not just solving a problem for today—we are building a future where clean water is always available."
Eisaa agrees. "I feel so proud to be part of this project. We used to suffer so much, but now, with solar power, we have a solution that will last for years. This is not just a water project—it’s hope for our community."
Ensuring a steady water flow - Ahmed inspects the new pipeline system, making sure clean water reaches the community efficiently. Al Maqaterah District, Lahj Governorate.
A model of resilience and sustainability
The Al-Akahel Water Project is a powerful example of how renewable energy can transform communities. By reducing dependency on fossil fuels and lowering costs, the project ensures long-term access to clean water for thousands of people.
"This project is not just about water," Ahmed says. "It’s about dignity, health, and a better life for everyone. Thanks to the support of the European Union and Government of Sweden, we now have a future where water is not a struggle, but a right for all."
The ERRY III Joint Programme continues to support communities like Al-Akahel, ensuring that clean water and sustainable energy become a reality for all rural areas in Yemen.
Harnessing solar energy for clean water, reducing fuel dependency, and ensuring sustainability. Al Maqaterah District, Lahj Governorate
***
The Supporting Resilient Livelihoods, Food Security, and Climate Adaptation in Yemen (ERRY III) Joint Programme, implemented jointly by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), International Labour Organization (ILO), and World Food Programme (WFP), and generously funded by the European Union (EU) and the Government of Sweden, is paving a path toward a more sustainable and resilient Yemen. The programme strengthens the resilience of populations in Yemen’s most vulnerable governorates by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. It enhances food security, employment, restoration of community assets, social services, agricultural value chains, women’s economic empowerment, and access to renewable energy—all essential for long-term development and stability.
