Yemen Communities Stronger Together (YCST) Year One Work Plan

The program is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and is implemented by Global Communities, in partnership with several local organizations. The program's mission is to advance local solutions to respond to the fluid operating environment, resolve disputes, and implement service delivery and conflict mitigation projects to address shared priorities and opportunities across communities. YCST will also build the capacity for local conflict management and dispute resolution, leveraging existing precedents and supporting local actors to manage conflict and deliver/restore basic services. YCST will operate in seven governorates: Aden, Lahj, Abyan, Sana'a, Taiz, Ibb, and Dhamar. The program will focus on Participatory Action for Community Enhancement (PACE) activities, including service delivery and conflict mitigation projects, as well as piloting small-scale stabilization activities in at least four districts implemented in coordination with local authorities. The program's objectives are outlined in four key areas: PACE at the community level, conflict mitigation training and community engagement, pilot stabilization activities, and action learning for adaptive management and enhanced outcomes. YCST will also implement an environmental monitoring and mitigation plan to minimize the program's impact on the environment. To achieve its objectives, YCST will establish a strong organizational structure and oversight, with a Chief of Party (COP) and a Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) leading the program. The program will also establish a community entry and mapping process, form and train community committees, and design, issue, and oversee sub-award projects. YCST will work closely with local authorities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that the program is responsive to local needs and priorities. The program will also implement a monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) system to track progress and make adjustments as needed. The program's start-up phase will include the selection of the first 18 communities for PACE activities, as well as the piloting of small-scale stabilization activities in at least four districts. YCST will also establish a strong partnership with local organizations, including the Field Medical Foundation (FMF), the National Foundation for Development and Humanitarian Relief (NFDHR), and Partners for Good (PfG). Overall, YCST aims to contribute to a reduction in or the risk of localized violent conflict in Yemen by supporting local communities and government strengthening. The program's focus on participatory action, conflict mitigation, and stabilization activities will help to build the resilience of Yemen's communities and governance systems, and promote a more equitable and sustainable future for the country.