With participation of Chamber of Commerce…Office of UN Special Envoy to Yemen discusses economic recovery and peacebuilding efforts with businesswomen
SMA NEWS – ADEN THE CAPITAL
The Office of the UN Special Envoy for Yemen (OSESGY) held a discussion session, in the capital Aden, with 18 businesswomen, from the Businesswomen Council and various governorates, with the participation of Aden Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to discuss their indispensable roles in economic recovery and peacebuilding. As part of the ongoing efforts made by the Office of the United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen to cooperate with stakeholders in all sectors, and ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to revitalizing the Yemeni economy and sustainable peace.
During the discussion session in which Mr. Abu Bakr Baobaid – Chairman of the Board of Directors of Aden Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Vice President of the General Federation of Yemeni Chambers of Commerce, along with him Eng. Ashraf Khanbari – Deputy Director General of the Aden Chamber of Commerce and Industry participated, the economic team of the Office of the United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen provided a detailed briefing on the office’s ongoing initiatives to revitalize the economy, highlight current challenges and opportunities, and emphasize the critical contributions of women’s entrepreneurship in directing efforts towards success.
In addition, the participants were briefed on other examples of women’s inclusion in post-conflict economic recovery, including a virtual briefing by OSESGY’s Inclusion and Women, Peace and Security adviser on the Libyan experience. Moreover, a member of the Businesswomen Council provided insights on the Rwandan experience, further enriching the discussions on economic revival and peacebuilding strategies.
With working papers presented by participants, the meeting set the stage for further integrating Yemeni businesswomen into the heart of peacebuilding and economic planning processes, targeting a more robust and equitable future for Yemen.
Participants expressed concern about the absence of sustained state support and a cohesive strategic vision for the private sector. They noted the severe shortage of financial resources, weak strategic planning capabilities, and insufficient financial support for small and micro enterprises. These deficiencies are compounded by the impacts of ongoing economic crises, which threaten the continuity of existing projects and discourage new investments. Additionally, they noted that cultural and social challenges continue to hinder the full integration and participation of women within society and the economy. Participants highlighted, in particular, how women face barriers accessing banking services.
Participants emphasized that Yemen flourishes when women are actively involved in governance the economy and peace efforts. Leveraging their unique perspectives and capabilities in peace processes is not just beneficial—it’s essential for lasting peace and ensuring economic prosperity.
OSESGY’s representatives underlined the Office’s commitment to advocating for the inclusion of women and their perspectives in the economic track, to deliver peace and prosperity.
