Yemen Communities Stronger Together (YCST) Monthly Program Update – May 2021

The program is being implemented by Global Communities in partnership with the Field Medical Foundation, Build Up, and Partners for Good, with funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). YCST's objective is to engage communities in an inclusive approach to identify and implement service delivery and conflict mitigation projects. Since its launch, ten projects have been identified under Phase 1 of Objective 1 for implementation in the governorates of Aden, Abyan, and Lahj. One project, the Al-Soqaya Water Supply Project, was completed in May 2021, providing improved access to water for 1,941 people. Three projects were being implemented at the end of May 2021, including the Al-Rabash Sanitary Drainage Network Project and the Dar Sa'ad Electricity Rehabilitation Project. YCST also conducted household surveys in the Al Gharbia community, Al Hawtah district, Lahj governorate, to verify community support of nominees who have expressed an interest in serving on community enhancement committees. The surveys resulted in 200 respondents, with 100 females and 100 males. A newly elected Community Enhancement Committee (Al Gharbia community) held its first meeting on May 26, with 10 male and 7 female members. YCST's objective is also to build the capacity of formal and informal local leaders, organizations, and networks to serve as neutral arbitrators and peace builders and meet community and constituent needs. Since its launch, USAID has provided technical and/or sub-award approvals for 24 initiatives under Objective 2. These initiatives aim to promote peace and stability in Yemen by supporting local authorities' efforts to identify and pilot projects that can peaceably manage conflicts and prevent a resurgence of violence. YCST conducted various activities in May 2021 to support its objectives, including reconciliation sessions, a photography workshop, and activities in six communities. The program also initiated the revision of its learning agenda questions and updated its real-time information management system to reflect progress on completed activities and quantify actual beneficiaries. Additionally, YCST staff attended a training to review best practices and methods to strengthen its capacity to submit an Activity Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Plan (AMELP), which satisfies USAID requirements. YCST's geographic focus is on the governorates of Aden, Abyan, Lahj, and other areas in Yemen. The program's timeframes are not specified, but it is ongoing, with various activities and projects being implemented throughout the year. The program's recommendations are not explicitly stated, but it is clear that YCST aims to promote peace, stability, and social cohesion in Yemen through its various initiatives and activities.