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As part of the seventh season of its Haith Al-Insan program, Tawakkol Karman Foundation has funded a fully equipped business project for a displaced entrepreneur in Marib, northeastern Yemen—a city he moved to nine years ago, carrying nothing but his craftsmanship and hope for a new beginning.
Saleh Ahmed Al-Baihany, a father of three, arrived in Marib after being displaced from Shabwa due to difficult circumstances that forced him to leave his home. With years of experience working in natural oil extraction, he dreamed of one day owning his own oil press business.
"I left Shabwa because of the situation there. The cost of living was high, and I couldn’t afford to stay, so I moved to Marib with my family," Saleh recalled. "I worked various daily wage jobs before finally finding an opportunity at a sesame and natural oil press."
However, despite securing a job in his field, Saleh struggled financially.
"My salary barely covered rent, daily expenses, and medical treatment for my mother, who suffers from heart muscle problems," he said. "I always wished I could start my own oil pressing business or at least become a partner in an existing one to earn a share of the profits."
With support from Tawakkol Karman Foundation, Saleh's long-awaited dream became a reality. The foundation rented a shop, fully equipped it with an integrated oil extraction unit, and provided all the necessary tools and supplies. Now, he has a stable source of income, allowing him to support his family and cover his mother’s medical expenses—all from a business he loves and has dedicated himself to for years.
Overwhelmed with joy, Saleh Al-Baihany expressed his gratitude, recalling the moment he walked into his new workshop for the first time.
"I was completely shocked—I never imagined this would happen. Seeing the oil press fully set up with everything I needed was an indescribable feeling. Now, I work for myself, my struggles are behind me, and I can finally improve my family's situation and rent a better home."
