A coalition of international humanitarian and development organizations has strongly condemned the killing of Wesam Qaid, Acting Executive Director of Yemen’s Social Fund for Development (SFD). According to the joint statement, Qaid was abducted on 3 May and later found dead in Aden, prompting widespread concern among aid and development groups operating in Yemen.
Wesam Qaid was widely recognized for his contributions to economic development and humanitarian work in Yemen. Through his leadership roles at the Small and Micro Enterprise Promotion Service (SMEPS) and the Social Fund for Development, he played a significant role in supporting vulnerable communities and advancing inclusive development initiatives across the country.
The organizations called for a prompt, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. They stressed the importance of ensuring accountability in accordance with the law and emphasized that violence against humanitarian and development workers is unacceptable and undermines efforts to support communities in crisis.
The statement also highlighted growing concerns over the safety and security of humanitarian personnel in Yemen. Aid organizations warned that increasing threats against development and relief workers create major obstacles to delivering assistance and weaken efforts to alleviate suffering in vulnerable communities.
Overall, the joint declaration reflects broader concerns about the challenging environment facing humanitarian and development actors in Yemen. The signatory organizations expressed condolences to Wesam Qaid’s family, colleagues, and partners, while reaffirming the urgent need to strengthen protections for those working to serve communities affected by conflict and instability.
