Dr. Thekra Al-Hamalani, an economic consultant, businesswoman and one of the researchers of a sesame value chain study, one of the seven value chain studies developed by the SIERY Project, shared; “The crisis and inflation has left a toll on investment opportunities in Yemen. Today, the public and private sector had the opportunity to discuss ways to collaborate to enhance local economic development and the infrastructure needed.”

Dr. Al-Hamalani also underscored the broader social benefits of economic development, stating, "When families’ livelihoods improve, women’s education and access to health services improve too." 

Indeed, research demonstrates that limited economic resources can restrict women’s access to quality healthcare and education opportunities, exacerbating gender disparities.

Dr. Al Hamalani is one of many community members who are passionate about growing local economic development; she has voluntarily offered free business consultancy services, expressing optimism about the project's potential in Marib.

The SIERY Project's support for the sesame value chain in Marib is comprehensive, including capacity building, training, provision of grants, sustainable access to microfinance and enhancing sustainable delivery of business development services. By focusing on these areas, the project aims to create a more robust and resilient local economy, capable of withstanding current challenges and fostering long-term development.

These activities were made possible thanks to the generous funding of the European Union.