Hand-weaving typical Yemeni men’s skirts
The Yemen CASH (Competitive Agriculture Systems for High Value Crops), a five-year value chain development program, funded by USAID, was launched in the second quarter of 2014. CASH is being implemented by the Land O’Lakes International Development Fund, in partnership with the International Executive Service Corporation (IESC), the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) and Creative Learning – Aid to Artisans (ATA). The project focuses on agriculture and is particularly dedicated to strengthening the value chains of horticulture, honey, coffee, livestock and handcrafts. It seeks to create greater market opportunities for rural areas and improve income and food security for underserved populations.
Basketry from date palm fiber
At the end of August 2014, Aid to Artisans started its craft value chain development effort with a two-week craft sector assessment. The goal of this activity was to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the craft value chain, and determine the needs for market-based product development, skills training and linkage to greater markets. One of the key objectives was to establish a local network of partners and engage a local project coordinator.
With past projects in Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan and Iraq, ATA is no stranger to working in Arab countries. Director of Program Management and Development Monika Steinberger heads the project with help of ATA local coordinator, Hayat Al Sharif.
Hayat Al Sharif, ATA Coordinator
Al Sharif brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the program with her extensive work with the Yemeni people, specifically in the field of photography. “I love the transfer of the Yemeni culture globally and would love for the world to see how beautiful this country is by its people,” says Al Sharif. Her passion makes her presence and efforts one of the key assets to the success of this project.
ATA has already begun planning the Holiday Craft Fair at USAID and the US Embassy in Sana’a, scheduled for the third week in December 2014. USAID plans to invite the diplomatic corps stationed in Sana’a for strongest possible exposure of local craft activity. To broaden the appeal, USAID has requested ATA to organize an exposition of traditional Yemeni wedding gowns, jewelry and headdresses.
The immediate goal of this project is to link artisans to the expat market. “During later product years, once ATA design experts have implemented their market-based product design upgrades, ATA plans to show these craft products at NY NOW™ and connect artisans with international buyers,” says Steinberger.
