A look back in the Yemeni media over the last 2 months shows a ’war’ between 2 vitality important issues for Yemen:
1. Security
2. Investment
The war is not an asymmetric confrontation between these 2 issues, though i guess ultimately it is, but a war being simultaneously played out in the Yemeni media. So what has been happening?

Following on from Brian Barron’s earlier piece, he has broadcasted from Aden on the 40th anniversary of the ending of British Colonial rule in South Yemen. Brian Barron’s commentary on Aden is factual and to the point. From one perspective, Aden is indeed a pretty sorry sight these days. From another, that of the curious tourist, Aden is a fascinating myriad of post colonial architecture, faded grandeur and a cocktail of islamic and non-islamic culture.

Just to let you know that i had an abortive trip to Shibam Kowkaban on Friday 23rd November. Reason – not enough paperwork about my work in Yemen or a tourist permit from the tourist police. Usually this checkpoint just needs a passport but not at the moment.
My advice…when travelling by road using taxi or bus, you need to have the right permits.

Brian Barron has a segment within the latest FOOC program on 24/11/07. You can read it / download it here
For anyone who just reads or downloads it here’s my smackdown to a story that does nothing but enhance the ’failed state’ image that has plagued Yemen.

It is possible to access the internet without a direct connection using WIFI or a fixed line.
I use a CDMA mobile phone on the Yemen Mobile network connected to my laptop. I have a post paid Yemen Mobile contract which is what you need to access this service.
Once you have got the phone and laptop configured to talk to each other (not difficult but let us know if you need help) you need the following details in your PC connection settings:
Phone number: #777
Username: ymobile
Password: ymobile
It costs about 15 riyals a …