Source: DD News
Context: The UAE and WHO have jointly launched a two-year humanitarian programme to tackle severe child and maternal malnutrition on Yemen’s Socotra Island.
About Socotra Island:
- What is Socotra Island?
-
- Socotra is a biodiversity-rich island known as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean” for its unique flora and fauna.
- Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 due to its high endemism—over 37% of its plant species are found nowhere else.
- Geography:
-
- Located in: Approximately 340 km southeast of Yemen, in the Indian Ocean, near the Horn of Africa.
- Total area: Approximately 3,796 sq. km.
- The island features coastal plains, a limestone plateau, and the rugged Hagghier Mountains.
- Political Control:
-
- Socotra is part of Yemen, currently under complex geopolitical influence involving UAE-backed forces and the Southern Transitional Council (STC).
- UAE also maintains a military presence, citing humanitarian and security assistance.
- Neighbouring Islands: Socotra Archipelago includes Abd Al-Kuri, Samhah, and Darsa, forming one of the most botanically diverse island groups on Earth.
- Origin of the Name ‘Socotra’: Likely derived from Sanskrit “Dvipa Sukhadhara” meaning “island abode of bliss.”
- Key Features:
-
- Ecological Diversity: Home to Dragon’s Blood trees, frankincense, myrrh, and endemic aloes.
- Climate:
- Semi-desert climate with low annual rainfall.
- Strong monsoonal winds (June–Sept) historically isolated the island.
- Economic Activities: Fishing, pearl diving, livestock herding, and small-scale agriculture sustain the population.
