Tech Solutions for Yemen’s Economic Recovery
Author: Organizing Team, UNLEASH Hack Yemen
Amid Yemen’s social-political climate, small businesses and young entrepreneurs face critical challenges, including limited resources and mentorship, which hinder growth and economic recovery. In response, UNLEASH Hack Yemen, co-organized with Renewal Youth Organization, was held from November 28 to 30, in hybrid format and it brought together 43 young innovators under the theme ‘Technology for Economic Recovery’.
Talents, divided into 6 in-person teams and 3 teams joining online, worked intensively over 2 days to address challenges such as improving operational efficiency, enhancing customer experience, and boosting product quality. They were supported by 13 Facilitators and Experts.
Some innovative solutions the teams came up with included the following: a digital platform connecting honey producers and exporters to strengthen Yemen’s honey supply chain; a data analytics platform to improve customer engagement for businesses; an integrated platform offering market research, strategic consulting, and feasibility studies for entrepreneurs; as well as solutions that focused on expanding market access for artisans and home businesses.
Despite logistical and contextual challenges, the Hack demonstrated the power of collaboration between the private sector, government, and civil society. Inaugurated by the Governor of Taiz, the hackathon reflected the resilience and potential of Yemeni youth to foster peace, development, and unity in divided communities.
Key sponsors and partners, including Tadhamon Bank as the main sponsor, along with Al-Saeed University, Rowad Foundation, Taiz Business Incubator, Wasl Organization, and Kayan Organization among others, played pivotal roles in supporting the program.
As Shawki Ahmed Hayel – COO of HSA Group and Chairman of Tadhamon Bank stated: “We are witnessing the birth of new ideas that provide innovative technological solutions to address the challenges our country faces, contributing to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This group of talented youth represents the best of Yemen’s future, rekindling endless hope and optimism.”
