Recent data from the United Nations indicates that 280,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) are currently housed in camps in Saada, a main stronghold of the Houthi group in northern Yemen, and the neighboring Al Jawf Governorate. The majority reside in over 150 displacement sites, contrary to Houthi media claims of a significant presence of African Horn refugees.
The UN Refugee Agency reports that it operates in these two governorates, hosting approximately 280,000 IDPs, with more than 122,000 individuals living in these camps and sites. To date, the agency, along with its partners, has provided various forms of assistance to about 14,000 displaced persons only.
Limited access to basic services affects about 35% of the IDPs in these locations. Local partners continuously monitor eight of these sites, focusing on protection, shelter, and non-food items this year. The agency has also shifted its strategy towards site monitoring and improvement, aiming to empower local and national actors to meet humanitarian needs more effectively.
The UNHCR confirms that it and its partners currently manage 22 displacement sites, with ongoing efforts to enhance the living conditions through shelter activities and quick-impact projects. Despite over 50,000 individuals receiving multipurpose cash grants, parts of Saada and Al Jawf remain incredibly remote, presenting severe access challenges to services and aid, significantly affected by the conflict.
Protection monitoring is a priority, with cash assistance deemed an efficient method to address the urgent needs of IDPs in Saada. The agency has completed seven quick-impact projects that have positively influenced community services, healthcare, and livelihoods, benefiting over 7,500 individuals.
Efforts also include improving access to clean water through water well rehabilitation and enhancing education by building classrooms and providing necessary equipment for 126 displaced and host community students.
Amidst these challenges, the areas face flood risks, impacting over 7,000 families last year, with the UNHCR assisting only 2,600 families with emergency shelter kits designed to provide minimal comfort.
