3.5 million people benefit from wastewater treatment plants

Baghdad, Iraq – 9 December 2023 – Today, the Government of Iraq, UNICEF and the German delegation inaugurated eight wastewater treatment plants at the Medical City in Baghdad. The eight plants of the largest medical complex in Iraq will benefit more than 3.5 million people in Baghdad.

Dr. Maximilian Rasch, Chargé d’Affaires of the German Embassy stressed in his opening remarks that “This climate-resilient project mitigates the impact of water scarcity, secures a greener environment, and raises awareness of the importance of wastewater treatment. It also directly benefits local communities in Baghdad. Germany is a prime partner of the Iraqi Government and will continue to support the country and its people.”

Before the installment and operationalization of these wastewater treatment plants, more than 2,300m³ of untreated water was discharged into the Tigris River daily.  The discharged untreated water degrades natural resources and puts the health of children and their families at risk.

“I am proud to witness the operationalization of these wastewater treatment plants,” said Dr. Anna- Christine Janke, Director of the Office of the German Development Bank KfW in Iraq. “It is a further example of our partnership with UNICEF in contributing to improved water sanitation,” she added. 

“UNICEF is committed to supporting the Government of Iraq in upholding the rights of children to quality health care and safe environment as enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child,” said Sandra Lattouf, UNICEF in Iraq Representative.  “This project is part of our commitment to mitigate climate change and secure a better and greener environment towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.”

With funding from the German Government, through the German Development Bank, KfW, UNICEF supported Baghdad Medical City in installing and operationalizing eight wastewater treatment plants.  These plants will enable the Medical City to secure safely managed sanitation benefitting healthcare workers, patients receiving healthcare services, and the surrounding communities.

“I applaud UNICEF and Germany through the German Development Bank KfW for their valuable support,” said Dr. Hassan Al Tamimi, Director General of Baghdad Medical City.  “This project guarantees optimum use and conservation of water through recycling and ensures a greener and cleaner environment.”

The project was implemented in two phases, where eight wastewater treatment compact units were delivered, installed, and operated. To ensure the sustainability of the project, the technical staff at the Medical City were trained to oversee the management and operationalization of the project.