ITC and KESK join efforts to promote climate smart solutions and innovative construction technology in Iraq

International Trade Centre (ITC), joint agency of UN and World Trade Organization fully dedicated to supporting small businesses of developing countries to trade, and KESK, Iraq’s pioneering green tech company announced their partnership for making smart green solutions trustable, accessible, and affordable.

This partnership is part of ITC’s recently launched European Union (EU) funded Building Equitable and Inclusive Transformation (BEIT) project, jointly implemented with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the International Labour Organization (ILO).

BEIT aims to generate quality jobs through the development of affordable and sustainable housing in Iraq. Specifically, ITC will bolster the capabilities of local businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the sector, with a focus on young entrepreneurs, enabling them to integrate green and innovative practices into their operations, as established in the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Eric Buchot, Representative, Head of ITC Country Programme in Iraq, and Basima Abdulrahman, Founder and CEO KESK signed the letter of intent. 

Emphasizing the strategic importance of the collaboration, Eric Buchot said, " Working together with KESK, we aim to promote climate-smart solutions and housing retrofits for middle income households in Iraq, reinforcing the capabilities of local businesses, especially young entrepreneurs.”

"We are thrilled to partner with the International Trade Centre, a collaboration that will empower Iraqi businesses, especially our youth and small enterprises, to embrace sustainable and innovative construction technologies. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission at KESK to build a greener future for Iraq. Together, we are setting a foundation for resilience and prosperity through environmentally conscious solutions that are critical for our country's development," said Basima Abdulrahman, Founder and CEO of KESK.

This collaboration marks a significant step towards supporting Iraqi youth through training, mentorship and resources in the housing and construction sector.