Since conflict erupted in 2015, Yemen has become one of the world’s biggest humanitarian crises.

The conflict has pushed an already fragile healthcare system close to collapse.

This has resulted in major health issues for the whole population - especially children.







In Abs Hospital, malnutrition among children under five has been rising every year.

Malnutrition is a serious condition that happens when your diet does not contain the right nutrients.

It is often linked with a scarcity of food.

But in Yemen, food is available - if you can afford it.

With more than 70% of Yemenis living in poverty, many people have limited access to food.

Yemen imports most of its food from other countries.

Due to high inflation and the depreciation of the Yemeni currency, prices have risen significantly.

The rising cost of fuel due to supply shortages has also affected what little food is produced locally.


All of this means that many people struggle to buy the necessary quantity, let alone quality, of food for their families.

The limited healthcare options available only compound this problem.

Medical care is either unavailable or very expensive. When left untreated, sick children can then fall victim to malnutrition.

At the same time, malnourished children are more prone to disease. It is a vicious cycle.

Low levels of health awareness, hygiene habits, poor breastfeeding practices and lack of clean drinking water also contribute to malnutrition.

BREATHER

People must be made aware of good breastfeeding and health practices.

Humanitarian agencies and local authorities must urgently expand food distribution and feeding programs to reduce malnutrition in Yemen.

And the same people must increase the availability of health services for the population.

Warring parties must ensure that the cost of war doesn’t fall on those least able to bear it.

Many children are fighting for their lives. They need attention. Yemen needs attention.