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

The program aims to mitigate conflict, strengthen social cohesion, and promote peaceful resolution of differences in Yemen. YCST is being implemented by Global Communities in partnership with the Field Medical Foundation, Build Up, and Partners for Good. YCST's objective is to engage communities in an inclusive approach to identify and implement service delivery and conflict mitigation projects. As of September 2021, ten projects have been identified under Phase 1 of Objective 1 for implementation in the governorates of Aden, Abyan, and Lahj. Eight projects were completed, and two projects were nearing completion. The Al-Rabash Sanitary Drainage Network Project and the Al-Madharebah (Al Shatt) Water Rehabilitation Project were completed in September, improving sanitation and ensuring a reliable supply of water to residents in Aden and Lahj governorates. YCST also focuses on building the capacity of formal and informal local leaders, organizations, and networks to serve as neutral arbitrators and peace builders. As of September 2021, 19 initiatives were underway, and two initiatives were completed. The program supports local authorities' efforts to identify and pilot projects that can peaceably manage conflicts and prevent a resurgence of violence. Eight projects were completed, and one project was ongoing under Objective 3. YCST's activities also include regular and action-oriented learning and contextual analysis to support adaptive management for enhanced outcomes. In September 2021, third-party monitoring was conducted for two completed projects, and a broad range of activities were carried out to enhance outcomes, including monitoring implementation, surveying households, assessing beneficiaries' perceptions, enhancing accountability, and tracking and gathering lessons learned. In Phase 1 communities, communal activities were carried out in six communities where projects were previously completed. The Field Medical Foundation (FMF) repaired a water link in the Adammar area of Jayshan, installed lights for solar systems in three communities in Ibn Albasir, and conducted sustainability workshops in Al-Nabyah. In Phase 2 communities, community entry activities were completed in six communities, including household surveys, community workshops, and high-level meetings to prioritize community stressors. YCST's program is being implemented in the governorates of Aden, Abyan, Lahj, and Hadramout. The program's activities are focused on engaging communities, building capacity, promoting peace, and enhancing outcomes. The program's objective is to lay the foundation for a peaceful and effective transition process in Yemen by engaging communities, building capacity, and promoting peace.