The Basins of Hope

Published : April 28, 2020

Irrigated agriculture is the primary source of food, employment and economic activity in Yemen.

However, water scarcity, poor management capacities of water resources, inadequate maintenance due to conflict, limited social cohesion among water users and weak governance – compounded by natural disasters – caused the most significant constraints to agricultural production. This project thus aims to improve the livelihoods of local farmers and communities in Manakh district, Yemen by rehabilitating their access to water from a rainwater tank. In addition, the project will support farmers and communities in setting up and running an agricultural business, which will contribute to their economic empowerment and will enhance their livelihoods.

These basins will also allow the Y30 association to carry out its other agricultural projects.

 

The Basin of Hope N°1, built in 2019, involved renovating and expanding the water reservoir in the village of Shebam, located in the Haraz Valley.

In August 2020, Y30 started the work of the Basin of Hope N° 2 in Al Lakamah. It provides water to the inhabitants of the 6 surrounding villages. The work, which was expected to last 9 months, was completed on January 31st 2021, 4 months ahead of schedule!

We are currently planning to construct the Basin of Hope N°3 in the village of Aldubur, which will benefit to 1484 people living in 8 different villages of the Manakha district.

Some figures:

  • 2 water basins 
  • Basin of Hope N°1
  • Basin of Hope N°2: 
    • 1 387 500 liters of water 
    • Benefiting 451 households of 6 villages: Al-Lakamah, Byt Almqld, Alkmh, Alsamy, Alhagrah and Alamir

 

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.