Sweden contributes USD 10.2 M to Iraq's agriculture sector in Southern Iraq to mitigate climate changes

Activities under the agreement include providing technical assistance; strengthening water management institutions and the water distribution system and enhancing the strategic framework and stakeholder engagement for a climate resilient agricultural development.

Implementing this project, in cooperation with Ministries of Agriculture, environment, water resources and other national and local stakeholders, will also tackle existing challenges in the development of major value chains by promoting climate smart agricultural practices to mitigate the impact of climate changes and enhance household and community resilience .

Ambassador of Sweden to Iraq, H.E. Jessica Svärdström says “Sweden maintains its commitment to improving the wellbeing and livelihoods of women and men in rural communities in southern Iraq with enhanced climate smart agriculture practices and management of natural resources, backed by policy support.”

FAO RNE ADG Dr Abdulhakim ElWaer: “its historical moment as Iraq is carrying the burden of climate change implications on Agriculture, water, environment and welfare of Iraqi people. This generous support will address these issues and I wish to thank the Governments of Sweden and Iraq".  “This partnership between SIDA and FAO Iraq came in timely manner given the water scarcity issues that Iraq’s agriculture is facing which are expected to be worse over time”. “We are extremely grateful for this contribution which will be instrumental in tackling these challenges and enhancing the climate resilience of local communities,” said FAO representative Dr Salah el hajj Hassan.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Dr Mithaq Al Khafaji, said: “This is very important project to mitigate the impact of climate change and water scarcity challenges on the vulnerable families especially in the south of Iraq. I want to address my sincere appreciation to the government of Sweden represented by H.E the Ambassador on this generous contribution, and thanks to SIDA and FAO for making this achievement”.

Iraq Deputy Minister of Environment. H.E. Dr Jassim Alfalahi: “It’s a great opportunity to implement this important project aimed at minimizing the impact of climate change not only for current, but also future generations. Thank you, the Government of Sweden and FAO, for supporting Iraqi people”.