The Iraq afforestation project is gaining momentum as a new plan to tackle unemployment and environmental issues. This week, Iraq’s Ministry of Planning met with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and key government ministries to develop a strategy for sustainable tree-planting across the country.
The joint meeting was chaired by Dr. Maher Hammad Johan, Deputy Minister for Technical Affairs. It brought together officials from the Ministries of Agriculture, Oil, Water Resources, Construction and Housing, and National Security. The goal was clear: use afforestation to generate real jobs while supporting long-term sustainability.
This ambitious programme focuses on planting trees across multiple governorates. However, it’s not just about the environment. The plan also aims to move communities away from dependence on social aid and toward self-employment. By doing so, the programme hopes to create lasting economic change.
The Iraq afforestation project also stands out for its focus on inclusivity and diversity. It aims to include various social groups and regions in the job-creation effort. This not only supports national unity but also ensures that the benefits of the project are spread widely.
Participants at the meeting discussed how Iraq can benefit from international success stories. They highlighted how other countries have used tree-planting as a tool for both employment and environmental recovery. Iraq plans to adapt these lessons to fit its unique context.
Dr. Johan stressed the importance of turning these discussions into concrete steps. He called for cooperation between ministries and encouraged quick action to launch pilot projects soon.
The ILO also played a key role in offering technical support and sharing global expertise. The organization sees the Iraq afforestation project as a strong model for combining job creation with climate action.
This initiative also aligns with Iraq’s broader goals under the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By generating jobs, improving green spaces, and building skills, the programme addresses economic, social, and environmental challenges all at once.
In conclusion, Iraq’s new afforestation plan shows how green initiatives can also drive economic change. If implemented effectively, it could offer hope for unemployed citizens while helping the environment recover.