March 9, 2025 — Rwanga Foundation and Iraqi Kurdistan Region’s Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources have formalized a partnership to address pressing environmental challenges, following a high-level meeting in Erbil today. Executive Director Hassan Aladdin of Rwanga and Minister Begard Talabani outlined plans to combat desertification, enhance green infrastructure, and promote sustainable farming practices across the region.
Central to Rwanga Foundation’s efforts is a large-scale olive tree plantation initiative in Erbil’s drought-affected Kasnazane area. Led by Rwanga Chairman Idris Nechirvan Barzani, the project has planted 18,500 of a planned 20,000 trees since 2023, revitalizing degraded land and creating a model for agro-forestry. Olive varieties were chosen for their adaptability to arid conditions, carbon-capture capabilities, and economic potential for local communities.
Minister Talabani emphasized that the initiative aligns with Iraq’s national goal to increase forest cover by 15% by 2030.
Rwanga’s broader “Green Kurdistan” campaign, which has planted over 200,000 trees nationwide since 2020, will also integrate biodiversity monitoring and soil health studies with Salahaddin University. Meanwhile, the ministry announced legislative reforms to incentivize private-sector participation in reforestation and backed Rwanga’s proposed restoration of drought-prone areas.
With the Kasnazane project nearing completion, officials anticipate reduced soil erosion, strengthened rural economies, and a blueprint for climate resilience in the region. A joint task force will oversee implementation and explore new initiatives in eco-tourism and carbon offset markets.
