 UN-HABITAT joined the government of Iraq on Monday to launch a new USD 70 million programme that will focus on urban governance, housing, infrastructure and basic services as the country recovers from years of conflict.
Unveiled by the Ministry of Planning and Development Cooperation, the launch of the UN-HABITAT Iraq Country Programme was attended senior representatives of Iraqi ministries, and the international community in Baghdad including UN agencies and donors. Ali Baban, Minister of Planning and Development Cooperation said the national unity government in Iraq is committed to the making the programme work: “This programme aims to stimulate growth, deliver better services to all, especially the poor and the most vulnerable, create employment, reduce poverty and maintain social and political stability in Iraq,” he said. “I welcome the partnership with UN-HABITAT in modernizing the Iraqi institutions of Housing and Urban Governance.” In a televised address, UN-HABITAT’s Executive Director, Mrs. Anna Tibaijuka said: “This is a historical moment in marking the partnership between the Government of Iraq and UN-HABITAT.” She reminded the International Community of its obligation to help Iraq achieve the Millennium Development Goals. The new programme will focus on providing technical assistance and capacity building support to ministries and local authorities in Iraq. For details click here. |
