Iraq, WFP and the Green Climate Fund Launch Project to Support Climate-Resilient Farming in Southern Iraq

The project, backed by a US$20.2 million grant from the GCF and co-financed by the Government of Iraq, will help an estimated 800,000 people adapt to changing environmental conditions and build more resilient and sustainable livelihoods.

The initiative will directly benefit 207,000 people who will receive training on efficient irrigation systems, sustainable farming techniques, and renewable energy solutions. This includes water-efficient farming methods, climate-resistant crops, and support for women and youth to develop new sources of income. Through these activities, the project aims to reduce harvest losses and increase productivity. Additionally, local agricultural institutions will be equipped with tools and expertise to help the wider agricultural community withstand environmental stress.

“Iraq is a country rooted in agriculture, yet today’s environmental challenges are making this lifeline less reliable for the thousands of vulnerable families who rely on it,” said WFP Acting Representative and Country Director Amit Singh. “We are grateful to the Green Climate Fund for funding this critical project that will help farmers face increasing climate challenges. With GCF’s support, we can empower entire communities by helping tens of thousands of people adapt and thrive even in the face of growing climate risks.”

The project aligns with the Government of Iraq’s national strategies and policies and comes at a critical time, as Iraq faces one of the worst droughts in its history, with water levels at five-year lows. In response, the government has postponed autumn and winter planting seasons, impacting the agricultural sector that employs nearly one-fifth of Iraq’s workforce. 

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The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

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