FAO Continues Its Support to Water User Associations in Thi Qar Governorate for Sustainable Irrigation Management


The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Iraq, in cooperation with the Ministries of Agriculture, Water Resources and Environment, and the local government, organized a ceremony to distribute 150 modern water pumps to members of Water User Associations in Al-Gharraf District, Thi Qar Governorate. This activity was implemented within the framework of the project “Restoring and Strengthening the Resilience of Agrifood Systems in Southern Iraq”, funded by the European Union.

The event was attended by the Governor of Thi Qar, Mr. Haitham Al-Hamdani; the FAO Representative in Iraq, Dr. Salah El-Hajj Hassan; the Deputy Representative, Ms. Veronica Quattrola; the Mayor of Al-Gharraf, Mr. Azhar Al-Khafaji; the Directors of the Agriculture and Water Resources Directorates in the governorate; as well as representatives of agricultural cooperative associations and members of Water User Associations in Al-Gharraf District, including Al-Halaliyah Association and Al-Rashash Association.

In his remarks, the Governor of Thi Qar underscored the importance of this intervention, stating:

“These initiatives represent a successful model of cooperation between local government and international organizations, and reflect FAO’s excellence in implementing projects that have had a tangible impact on local communities. They directly contribute to supporting farmers, improving agricultural production, and strengthening economic stability in rural areas.”

In his opening remarks, FAO Representative in Iraq, Dr. Salah El-Hajj Hassan, emphasized that:

“Supporting Water User Associations is a cornerstone for enhancing the sustainable management of water resources, improving irrigation efficiency, and building more resilient agrifood systems in the face of climate and water challenges—particularly in strategically important agricultural areas such as Al-Gharraf District in Thi Qar Governorate.”

He also expressed his appreciation to the European Union for its support and to the Government of Iraq for its cooperation in implementing these activities.

Representatives of local and implementing authorities—particularly the Director of Agriculture of Thi Qar Governorate and the Mayor of Al-Gharraf—also expressed their appreciation for these efforts, noting that:

“Joining efforts among government institutions, international organizations, and local communities creates tangible impact on the ground, contributes to equitable water distribution, ensures resource sustainability, and supports farmers over the long term.”

This activity is part of an integrated irrigation improvement intervention in Al-Gharraf District through the establishment and support of two Water User Associations—Al-Halaliyah and Al-Rashash—benefiting 150 farmers. The intervention included canal desilting and cleaning over 15 km and laser land leveling across 100 dunums, significantly improving water flow, irrigation efficiency, and on-farm water use. Complementary training strengthened farmers’ capacity in sustainable water management and coordination with authorities. 

Together, these actions enhanced agricultural productivity, reduced water losses, and contributed to more resilient and sustainable farming systems in southern Iraq. 

FAO reaffirms its strong commitment to working with national and international partners to support farmers, strengthen rural livelihoods, and advance food security through the sustainable management of natural resources in southern Iraq. 

For more information, please contact:

FAO Iraq – Communications Unit

Reem.alsadoon@fao.org