UN Iraq and Ministry of Water Resources Launch "Water is Life" Campaign
22 July 2024
Baghdad, Iraq – July 22, 2024 – Today, the United Nations in Iraq, in partnership with the Iraqi Ministry of Water Resources, kicked off a crucial campaign to address the severe water crisis facing the nation. The year-long awareness campaign, titled "Water is Life – Every Drop Counts," aims to sensitize Iraqi citizens about the critical state of their water resources and foster a sense of responsibility to mitigate this crisis.
The launch event was held at the Ministry of Water Resources and included a comprehensive overview of the campaign, followed by an engaging discussion and a press conference.
Minister of Water Resources, H.E. Aoun Diab Abdullah, stated, "Our Ministry is committed to updating our water management strategies and incorporating modern technologies in irrigation projects. These efforts are essential to prevent waste and depletion of our water resources and ensure that every drop of water is used efficiently. The partnership with UN and international organizations has been crucial in these advancements. We are grateful for their support in raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices."
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Ghulam Mohammed Isaczai, emphasized the urgency of the situation and the collective actions needed to address it. He said, "Water is essential to life, yet we are currently facing a significant crisis. In recent years, the rivers have run lower, and the fields have dried up more than ever before. Through collective efforts and cooperation, we can tackle this challenge. Crucial steps such as upgrading water systems, protecting the rivers from pollution, and investing in innovative water management practices are paramount. Let’s work together to protect water for the future of Iraq. Every drop counts and so does every action."
The "Water is Life" campaign is structured through four phases over the next year. The initial phase will focus on raising awareness about the water crisis and the effects of climate change. The following phase will introduce the key players involved in managing Iraq's water resources, fostering a sense of accountability and collaboration. The third phase will showcase ongoing projects and efforts by the Iraqi government and UN agencies, highlighting successes and ongoing initiatives. The final phase will look to the future, outlining plans and strategies to continue addressing the water crisis and highlighting Iraq’s participation in international forums and efforts to secure support and funding for water projects.
The "Water is Life" campaign represents a unified effort by the UN agencies and the Iraqi government to address one of the most pressing issues facing the country. Through this campaign, significant progress can be made in water conservation and management, ensuring a sustainable and better future for all Iraqis.
Hashtag: #WaterisLife
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