Source: UNICEF

In a significant relief effort, UNICEF, in collaboration with the Social Fund for Development and with funding from the World Bank, has distributed cash aid to more than 1.43 million vulnerable families across Yemen. This assistance, part of the Unconditional Cash Transfer program, aims to bolster the livelihoods of nearly 9.2 million people amidst the ongoing conflict that has crippled the nation’s economy and services.

The current payment cycle, which will continue through mid-October, involves a distribution of approximately US$62.5 million. This financial aid serves as a crucial safety net for the poorest families, including those led by women or caring for individuals with disabilities. The cash is disbursed via various methods, including direct payment sites, mobile teams, home visits, and an innovative e-wallet pilot scheme.

Peter Hawkins, UNICEF’s Representative to Yemen, highlighted the importance of this aid, stating it provides a “critical lifeline” for families to cover essential expenses like food, healthcare, and debt repayment. This 18th payment cycle marks the first nationwide distribution of the year, offering each household their base benefit plus an additional 50 percent to help meet their most pressing needs.