This report was issued by the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in Yemen. It covers the period from 14 October to 21 October 2009. The next report will be issued on or around 4 November 2009.
I. HIGHLIGHTS/KEY PRIORITIES
- The Central Government of Yemen has agreed that the UN and international organisations resume assistance to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) living in host communities in Amran Governorate.
- A UNHCR cross-border convoy carrying aid for some 2,000 beneficiaries close to Yemen's border with Saudi Arabia crossed into Yemen at the town of Alb on Sunday 11 October. ICRC and the YRCS continue to provide assistance to IDPs in all conflict-affected areas including Baquim
- The Government of Yemen issued a report highlighting the relief efforts it has undertaken since the start of the conflict. It thanked donors who have contributed to the Flash Appeal and called for further support from other donors.
- Revision of the Flash Appeal is ongoing.
II. Situation Overview
On 18 October, the diplomatic community, United Nations agencies, international non-governmental organisations (INGO) met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Health, in his capacity as Vice Chair of the High Level Emergency Relief Committee. The Ministers confirmed media reports of Government intentions to open humanitarian corridors to enable IDPs to reach camps. During this meeting the Government thanked the UN and partners for their relief operations and the donors for their contributions to the Flash Appeal, and invited other donors to contribute.
The authorities continue to build a camp in Khaiwan in Amran Governorate. The UN expressed concerns over the security of the site and suggested that the camp be established in an alternative location.
Humanitarian distribution to IDPs living in host communities in Amran Governorate was initially suspended at the request of the authorities in order to encourage the IDPs to move to the camp. Following discussions between the UN Resident Coordinator and the Government of Yemen at the central level, it was agreed that international humanitarian agencies would be authorised to resume assistance to IDPs living in host communities. Discussions are ongoing with local authrorities to address the matter.
Insecurity is preventing road convoys to Sa'ada via Al-Jawf Governorate.Five trucks containing food and seven containing non-food items (NFIs) have been held up between the two governorates due to obstructions from tribal leaders..
The situation in Razeh town (western Sa'ada Governorate) has deteriorated over the last few days as several rockets repeatedly hit the Rural Hospital, while medical staff and patients were present. MSF has taken the decision to evacuate a part of its staff and reduce its medical activities in the hospital.
