As part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing humanitarian efforts, mobile nutritional medical clinics operated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center provided treatment to 4,824 beneficiaries in Al-Khawkhah District, Al-Hudaydah Governorate, Yemen, from January 21 to 27, 2024. This support is part of a comprehensive project to combat malnutrition and bolster the struggling health sector in Yemen.
Background to the humanitarian crisis in Yemen
Yemen has been suffering for years from one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with the ongoing conflict leading to the near-total collapse of its infrastructure, including its healthcare system. The Hodeidah governorate, and specifically the coastal district of Al Khawkhah, is among the hardest-hit areas, hosting large numbers of internally displaced people who have fled conflict zones. These conditions have exacerbated malnutrition rates, particularly among children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers, and have led to the spread of diseases and epidemics due to a lack of healthcare and clean water.
Details of medical services provided
The clinics provided services across several vital departments to meet the urgent needs of the local community. The internal medicine clinic received 933 patients, while the emergency clinic treated 792 cases. The pediatric clinic provided care for 289 children, and the epidemiology clinic saw 335 patients. A mobile medical team served 273 individuals in remote areas. Services also included specialized departments: the reproductive health department saw 304 patients, the nutrition department treated 106, and 40 individuals received necessary immunizations. Eighteen deliveries were performed, the surgical clinic provided services to 224 individuals, and 1,503 people benefited from health awareness and education programs.
Accompanying services and logistical support
In addition to medical consultations, the clinics provided essential support services. The laboratory department conducted 1,371 tests, and medications were dispensed to 2,638 patients. The healthcare department attended to 2,152 cases, administered blood transfusions to 7 beneficiaries, and performed electrocardiograms for 9 patients, reflecting the comprehensiveness of the care provided.
Project importance and impact
The importance of these mobile clinics lies in their ability to reach the most vulnerable populations in hard-to-reach areas, providing life-saving primary healthcare and nutrition. Locally, these interventions contribute to reducing child and maternal mortality rates, limiting the spread of infectious diseases, and alleviating the burden on poor and displaced families. Regionally and internationally, this project highlights the pivotal role of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre as the humanitarian arm of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in responding to global crises, and underscores the international commitment to supporting the Yemeni people until a lasting political solution is reached that restores stability to the country.
