The “Basin of Hope”: Bringing Water and Renewal to Yemeni Agriculture

Published : April 5, 2019

Despite the fact that some dams have remained unscathed from bombings in Yemen, those that persist are deemed too small and no longer sufficient to meet the increasing needs of the population. With farmers constituting 74% of the population, a surge in agricultural interest due to the ongoing war is contributing to this growth.

The “Bassin de l’Espoir” project, focuses on renovating and expanding the water reservoir in the village of Shebam, situated in the Haraz Valley, Sanaa. The primary objective is to foster agricultural development in the region by ensuring local farmers have reliable access to fresh water. Simultaneously, the project aims to contribute to wildlife preservation and regional reforestation.

Ultimately, the project will play a pivotal role in securing the food supply for the population, alleviating poverty, and enhancing living conditions for Yemenis. The creation of a freshwater reserve will transform arid agricultural lands into local and sustainable sources of both food and income.

The reservoir will also facilitate the implementation of Y30’s other projects, including “Trees for the Future” and the nursery project initiated in October 2017, successfully completed in 2019 through donations from our partners and the commendable efforts of Yemenis on the ground. Looking ahead, Y30’s plan is underway for the construction of a second reservoir in 2020, located in Al-Lakama village, Manakh district

This special celebration was more than just raising a cup; it was a journey of discovery, tracing the story that begins with a tiny bean nurtured in fertile mountain soil and ends with a cup that carries joy, inspiration, and community.

 

Under the theme “The Magical Journey… From Bean to Cup,” the event highlighted coffee as a global symbol of unity — a bridge connecting cultures, stories, and people across continents.

 

Each coffee bean represents dedication, craftsmanship, and passion — from the farmer’s care to the barista’s artistry.

 

One of the event’s most memorable moments was the engaging presence of barista and coffee expert Ammar Al-Ahlasi, who filled the room with enthusiasm and the irresistible aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

 

He came not just to serve coffee, but to share knowledge and unveil the secrets behind this enchanting beverage.

 

Ammar emphasized that brewing coffee is both an art and a ritual — from choosing the right grind size to controlling the water temperature and mastering the pouring technique. Every detail matters.

 

Each drop of water that touches the ground extracts not just flavor, but also a story, a feeling, and a sense of connection — creating a cup that nourishes the soul as much as the senses.

 

In closing, the Y30closing, the Y30 Association, in collaboration with the Y30 Institute, affirmed that this event was more than just a celebration — it was a heartfelt tribute to the timeless values that coffee embodies: dedication, creativity, and human connection.

 

Every cup tells a journey — from the earth to the heart — reminding us that coffee is not merely a beverage, but a way of life.