In an informal discussion with one of the ambassadors during a dinner, I talked about the importance of planning ahead. I emphasized on the importance of looking ahead and planning for the future, and how people in developed nations reflect this as a theme in their daily lives.
However, talking about Yemen, I expressed my concern and worry that the future of Yemen is at stake. The ones in charge of this country are thinking in an outdated fashion. I told my ambassador friend that Yemen couldn't expect a bright future unless the decision-makers in this country plan for the future.
Looking around me, I can see that Yemen is facing several crises. One of the most challenging is the water crisis, another is the exploding population, a third is the inefficient judicial system, a fourth is the security problems and the the spread of arms. The list goes on and on endlessly.
All of these issues require planning well in advance. The efforts to limit the effects of these problems should have been started a long time back. But even though it seems too late today, there is still some hope.
The duties and responsibilities of the new ministers are extremely challenging. Not only do they need to solve the current problems, but they also need to think of solutions for the problems that are expected to crop up in a few years time.
The issue of planning has not been well attended by different governments which have ruled Yemen. Perhaps it is about time the new government and the leadership, with its new vision started giving this issue its due attention.
"Decision makers should understand that the country is not only for them or their children. It is for generations to come. The future of Yemen is at stake, and we need to act quickly," I said.
Indeed, we are running out of time and out of options. It is now the time to act. It is now time to work for a bright future instead of just dreaming about it.