USAID commits investment of up to $20 Million with UNICEF to address water scarcity in Iraq and improve water and sanitation services

“This program aligns with the Government of Iraq’s national three-year cost plan,” said Mr. Ali Hussein Abdul Amir, Deputy Minister of Construction, Housing, Municipalities and Public Work. “We highly value our partnership with UNICEF, and USAID’s support will play a key role in advancing our goal of inclusive access to sustainable water and sanitation services.”

The funding will enhance local capacity to ensure equitable access to essential water and sanitation services. It will also strengthen the capabilities of Iraqi government partners to provide universal access to safe, inclusive, equitable distribution of water and build trust among youth and urban and rural inhabitants in the services offered.

Erin Mone-Marquez, USAID/Iraq Acting Mission Director, added, "we’re proud to collaborate with UNICEF and the Government of Iraq to scale national water and sanitation services at the governorate level. By working together with local communities and partners, we are collectively taking the necessary and important steps toward ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future for all Iraqis." 

The initiative will focus on strengthening water sector management, modernising service delivery, and increasing private sector and community engagement, particularly engaging youth, who constitute nearly 60 per cent of the Iraqi population.

“Under the leadership of the Government of Iraq and in partnership with USAID, this transformative initiative will accelerate progress to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals,” said Sandra Lattouf, UNICEF Representative in Iraq. “It will drive critical improvements in water systems, ensure a sustainable environment, and empower communities, especially children and young people, to drive climate action.”

The program will promote sustainable behaviour change by enhancing knowledge, attitudes, and practices within communities.  It will also safeguard youth from the impacts of climate change, empowering them to take leadership roles in climate action.

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About UNICEF:

UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, works to protect the rights of every child, everywhere, especially the most disadvantaged children and in the toughest places to reach. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we do whatever it takes to help children survive, thrive, and fulfill their potential.

Follow UNICEF Iraq on our website,  Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

About Ministry of Construction and Housing and Municipalities and Public Work, Government of Iraq:

Under the overall leadership of the Government of Iraq, the Ministery is implementing strategic projects and other initiatives that are providing suitable housing and living environments for the largest number of families and individuals, expanding road networks, providing safe drinking water, extending sewage services, ensuring access to essential services and infrastructure, reducing the development gap between urban and rural areas, and optimising the use of natural resources and protecting the environment.

For more information, visit: https://www.moch.gov.iq/

ABOUT USAID:

The United States Government, through USAID, is a steadfast partner of Iraq, helping enhance social and economic stability for all citizens. USAID is working with the Iraqi Government, international institutions, and local partners to develop national climate strategies, improve the management of water resources, and empower women, youth, and minorities.

Follow USAID Iraq on our website,  and Facebook

For more information, please contact:

• Zaid Fahmi, Communication Officer, UNICEF: zfahmi@unicef.org
• Pravaran Mahat, Communication Specialist, UNICEF: pmahat@unicef.org