Iraq: Japan provides support to restore crtical services in Iraq’s newly liberated areas
BAGHDAD, 14 April 2019 – The Government of Japan has awarded close to USD 4 million to the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) to implement a project aimed at enhancing the living conditions and safety of the Iraqi population living in the newly liberated areas.
The project, “Restoring access to critical urban services in liberated areas,” focuses on restoring access to critical urban services. It is expected that over 100,000 people who live in the newly liberated areas in Anbar, will benefit from the project that will be implemented in coordination with the local authorities and partners. The project will respond to the immediate needs of the communities in providing equipment for solid waste management, rehabilitation of urban water facilities and roads, and provision of renewable energy solutions for critical infrastructure such as health facilities, schools, other public buildings or streets.
H.E. Mr Naofumi Hashimoto, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Iraq said: “Japan has recently decided a new assistance package for Iraq amounting to US$ 63 million, including this project as a contribution to improvement of the living conditions of the returnees in Anbar governorate by restoring access to critical urban services such as water and sanitation, transport, energy and solid waste management. With this package, the total amount of Japan’s assistance to the people affected by the crisis reaches US$ 500 million.”
Usman Akram, Director of UNOPS Operational Hub in Amman said, “we are proud to support returnees and vulnerable host communities in newly liberated areas through innovative energy solutions and solid waste disposal, in partnership with the Government of Japan. Restoring access to critical urban services in liberated areas, where most of the related damage has occurred, is essential in order to ensure that returnees are provided with decent living conditions.”
UNOPS has been active in Iraq since 2004, delivering close to 50 projects worth over $260 million, and supporting more than 500 projects implemented by Iraqi civil society organizations.
About UNOPS - United Nations Office of Project Services
UNOPS helps the UN and its partners provide peace and security, humanitarian and development solutions. UNOPS mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development. UNOPS services cover infrastructure, project management, procurement, financial management and human resources. Our partners call on us to supplement their own capacities, improve speed, reduce risks, boost cost-effectiveness and increase quality.
The UNOPS Hub in Amman covers Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, and Yemen, and implements projects in partnership with bilateral donors, national governments, and other UN agencies.
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