The Southern State map

التالى السابق

The call for Southern self-governance is now a local and international necessity

REPORTS - 10 days ago

South Eye | Report - Exclusive

The current transitional moment in South Yemen represents a rare opportunity to lay the foundation for autonomous governance under the leadership of the Southern Transitional Council (STC). Decades of marginalization, conflict, and centralized mismanagement have left the South with accumulated grievances. However, in the midst of these hardships, the South possesses the essential components to pivot toward a viable, stable, and future-oriented political and economic system.

The call for self-governance is no longer a matter of mere aspiration or nationalistic sentiment. It is now a functional necessity. Citizens of the South demand a southern transparent, accountable governance system that addresses urgent needs in service provision, infrastructure, economic opportunity, and human dignity. This demand coincides with the increasing recognition from regional and international partners of the importance of enabling local governance structures that can guarantee stability, prevent conflict spillovers, and create an investment-friendly environment.

In this context, digital tools and e-governance offer a powerful catalyst for transparent administration. The integration of digital platforms in the management of civil services—such as health, education, municipal services, licensing, taxation, and budget allocation—can significantly reduce corruption, increase efficiency, and boost public trust. These technologies can also enhance data collection and policy responsiveness, offering a modern infrastructure upon which South Yemen can base its development.

Economic stability is intricately tied to political clarity and administrative capability. The South has untapped advantages in strategic sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, industry, and services. Yet these advantages remain constrained by systemic obstruction and fragmented governance. Empowering the STC to take full control of southern affairs would allow for rational planning and investment. Agricultural development, particularly in fertile regions such as Abyan and Lahj, can be accelerated through irrigation infrastructure, extension services, and access to finance. This would not only boost food security but also support export markets.

Industrial growth, anchored in the rehabilitation of refineries and the development of industrial zones in ports like Aden, capital and Mukalla, can reenergize the labor market and reduce dependency on imports. This also includes reviving logistical capacities—such as cold chains, warehouse systems, and cargo handling facilities—that are critical for international trade. A focused industrial policy, supported by public-private partnerships, can position the South as a regional hub.

Tourism is another underutilized pillar. The South is rich with coastal, historical, and ecological assets that could drive sustainable tourism development if provided the necessary security, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks. Cities like Aden Capital, Lahj, Shabwah and Hadramaut can host regional and international visitors, provided proper marketing and strategic investment are ensured. Tourism would not only generate direct income but stimulate local industries such as hospitality, transport, crafts, and retail.

The financial ecosystem in the South must also be modernized to support broader economic goals. This includes stabilizing the local currency through independent monetary mechanisms, reforming the independent banking sector, and expanding digital payment systems. Financial autonomy would allow for the implementation of localized fiscal policies aimed at growth, resilience, and social welfare.

Security remains the backbone of any developmental ambition. The southern security apparatus, under unified and professional leadership (STC), plays a central role in safeguarding investments and ensuring law and order. Cooperation with regional allies is vital to strengthen training, logistics, and intelligence capabilities. More importantly, southern populations must see southern security institutions  keeping their interests—this requires strict accountability measures and community cooperation.

International cooperation and diplomatic engagement are indispensable. The South should actively build partnerships with UN agencies, international financial institutions, NGOs, and foreign governments to attract technical assistance, capacity building, and investment. Presenting the South as a responsible actor willing to fulfill its part in regional stability and global trade can encourage alignment with broader strategic interests.

There is no need to wait for a comprehensive political settlement to begin this transformation. Practical steps toward local governance and economic recovery can and should start now. The STC can gradually develop a southern technocratic government-in-practice by assembling capable leadership, engaging civil society, and enacting transparent regulatory systems. Demonstrating competence and effectiveness in service delivery is the best argument for broader international recognition.

Ultimately, the South's trajectory will be determined not just by external dynamics or diplomatic outcomes, but by its ability to organize itself as a credible and forward-looking polity. The opportunity exists. The responsibility to seize it is ours.