Yemen’s crumbling roads mean an arduous quest for water for Taiz villagers
Summary
Roads around the Ragem village in Yemen near Taiz are unpaved and difficult to travel, making it hard for villagers to reach markets and get water. Local volunteers began fixing the roads themselves after government and aid efforts didn't help, improving transport and giving hope to the community.Key Facts
- The village of Ragem is 70 km from Taiz, with rough roads only accessible by large four-wheel-drive vehicles.
- Minibus drivers often refuse to travel these roads unless paid much more than usual, forcing many people to walk long distances.
- About 7,600 people live in Ragem and nearby hamlets with limited transport and supply access.
- The government says it does not have enough resources to pave these roads.
- Three years ago, local youth started a volunteer project to repair and pave the roads using donations.
- Residents donated money ranging from a few cents to over $600, and many villagers contributed labor.
- Volunteers have paved over 124 meters of road recently, with about 500 meters left on difficult sections.
- Unpaved roads also hinder water delivery, causing families in nearby camps to walk long distances carrying heavy water containers daily.
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