Background
Following the imposition of sanctions on Iraq, a large proportion of construction work had to be suspended, resulting in damage and deterioration of water treatment works, water supply networks, wastewater disposal systems and other facilities, affecting mostly urban populations. In some districts of Baghdad, the situation came close to catastrophic. The main objective of this project was to improve the living conditions of communities and neighbourhoods in Baghdad through the provision of immediate rehabilitated works. The project aimed to build capacity in communities and municipalities to enable them to plan, design and implement projects for the rehabilitation of essential services.
Activities
- Creation of pilot community-based rehabilitation schemes in selected communities of Baghdad.
- Establishment of community organizations (co-operatives).
- Technical support to municipal rehabilitation units.
- Implementation of rehabilitation works.
- Development of information dissemination strategy.
Results
The project has rehabilitated a considerable number of public services in various neighbourhoods of Baghdad, including Al-Sadr City (formerly Saddam City) Al-Shullah and Al-Talibiyah, which has led to improved sanitation, better solid waste management and more efficient water systems in the city, benefiting over 20,000 people. It has also mobilized communities, built community co-operatives and entered into productive partnerships with Baghdad municipalities. In 2002, the Neighbourhood Rehabilitation Project in Baghdad was awarded the Dubai International Award for Best Practices in Improving the Living Environment.
