Yemen

Yemen is one of the poorest countries in the Arab world. Its population has reportedly averaged 3.5% annual growth between 2000 and 2006. Yemen is struggling to control excessive spending and rampant corruption and is dependent on foreign aid to finance its budget deficits and development projects. Unemployment is 35%, and 45% of the population lives below the poverty line.

• Unemployment rate is 35%
• 45% of the population live below poverty line

Photo credit CIA Factbook

Most of Yemen’s rural populace – about 70% of its total population - relies on subsistence agriculture in a harsh desert climate. Access to credit through MFIs is one among several key elements that will promote increases in the incomes of poor rural households.

Learn more about Grameen-Jameel’s work in Yemen.