Aisha and Na’aem have been through a lot together. Growing up in the city of Al Hodeidah in western Yemen, they were forced to flee 3 years ago when conflict flared.
Today, they live in Sahdah camp in southwest Yemen and spend most of their days together, thinking of ways to make the world a better place. “If we don’t study, we won’t be able to achieve our dreams,” says Aisha.
In its 7th year of conflict, Yemen remains the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Some 20 million Yemenis depend on humanitarian assistance to survive, including 4 million internally displaced persons.
The country’s escalating violence and worsening food insecurity is further aggravating their already challenging living conditions. EU humanitarian aid helps girls like Aisha and Na’aem and their families access primary health and nutrition care while raising awareness about COVID-19.
Photos by Saleh Ba Hayan/IRC.
“When I have a friend with me, the whole world feels happy,” Aisha says. Pictured right, she and Na’aem grew up together, and now live in the same camp. “I have lots of friends in the camp, but not like Na’aem,” explains Aisha. “She’s my best friend.” 
Aisha and Na’aem live in Sahdah camp, in Al-Dhale’e governorate in southwest Yemen. Conditions in the camp are bad, with poor infrastructure and sanitation. The girls live in make-shift homes, with limited access to adequate shelter, food, and water. 
“One day, I’ll become a teacher and Aisha a doctor,” explains 11-year-old Na’aem. “We’ll combine our salaries and buy things for the camp.” Aisha lives with 8 other family members. Na’aem often visits Aisha at her home and spends time there. 
With EU funding, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) supports families like Aisha and Na’aem’s in accessing primary healthcare, including malnutrition screening and treatment. We also help volunteers raise awareness about COVID-19 in the camps. 
Like many girls their age, the two share a passion for reading and diligently attend school in hopes of a brighter future. “Knowledge is light, ignorance is darkness,” says Na’aem. “We help each other out in case one of us can’t attend class.” 
Aisha and Na’aem realise the importance of education. Their families are very supportive. “My mother isn’t educated, but she encourages me to study,” says Na’aem. “If we don’t study, we won’t be able to achieve our dreams,” adds Aisha.
