VOICED: Yemen's taste for khat trumps its thirst for water

In SANA, Yemen, water scarcity is a daily challenge due to the lack of a main water supply. Residents rely on private wells, but these are depleting rapidly. A significant factor is the cultivation of the cat plant, which consumes a large amount of water. Experts warn that the city's groundwater may run dry by the decade's end. Reducing cat cultivation could help, but it risks social unrest due to the plant's popularity. The government is under pressure to act swiftly to prevent the capital from running out of water.

What is the main reason residents of Sana'a have to collect water daily?

• The government provides water regularly.

• There is no main water supply.

• Private wells are abundant and full.

• The city has a main water supply.

Why is the khat plant considered a major issue in Yemen's water crisis?

• It uses significantly more water than other crops.

• It requires less water than coffee plants.

• It helps conserve water resources.

• It is not widely cultivated in Yemen.

What is a potential consequence of reducing khat cultivation in Yemen?

• Social unrest

• Decreased energy levels in plants

• Increased water supply

• Improved agricultural output

What percentage of water is used for khat cultivation in Yemen?

• 70 to 80%

• 55 to 60%

• 30 to 40%

• 10 to 20%

What is the government's main challenge in addressing the water crisis?

• Reducing the crop strain on water resources

• Building more private wells

• Finding new water sources

• Increasing khat cultivation