Strengthening Infrastructure in the Kurdistan Region

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has undertaken an ambitious journey to enhance and strengthen its infrastructure and lay a solid foundation for sustainable development and economic growth. This strategic vision aims to not only bolster the region's physical infrastructure, such as dams and roads, but also to modernize its information technology systems and digital groundwork. These efforts reflect a comprehensive approach that addresses current needs and anticipates and prepares for future challenges ahead.

Advancements in Water Management and Dam Construction

The Kurdistan Region, in an effort to address water management and drought seasons, has prioritized the development of dams.

Since the beginning of the ninth cabinet, the region has seen the construction of four new dams at a cost exceeding 45 billion dinars, with an additional 13 dams under construction, estimated at an investment of over 553 billion dinars.

This development aims to provide for essential water reserves, support agricultural activities, and ensure a steady water supply for residential and industrial use.

Moreover, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has approved the rehabilitation of 11 dams across Erbil, Slemani, and Duhok, signifying a continued commitment to enhancing the region's water infrastructure.

Ponds and Groundwater Replenishment

Complementing dam construction, the KRG has turned its attention to building ponds, with 110 completed and another 40 underway.

These ponds are integral to the region's strategy for groundwater replenishment and efficient water use, in an effort to safeguard water resources for both agriculture and fishery as industries.

An additional 71 ponds are planned in order to ensure sustainable water management and protection of vital groundwater resources.

The ponds located across Erbil, Duhok, and Slemani are multifunctional, aiding in flood prevention, supporting agriculture, enhancing tourism, and replenishing groundwater.

Enhancing Connectivity through Road Infrastructure

A primary focus of the region's efforts has been the development of new roads and the rehabilitation of existing ones.

Under Prime Minister Barzani’s cabinet, the Kurdistan Region has undertaken an initiative resulting in the implementation of 674 road projects.

These endeavors have significantly improved accessibility by paving or building a staggering 48,701 kilometers of roads that connect various cities and villages.

Investing in Information Technology for a Digital Future

When it comes to digitalization, the Kurdistan Region has accomplished a lot during the span of Prime Minister Barzani’s involvement.

The establishment of the dot KRD (.KRD) domain and the Department of Information Technology signifies a leap towards a unified digital identity and streamlined government services.

The government's implementation of 25 digital services, including comprehensive systems for population management, visa issuance, and business registration, marks a transition towards more accessible, transparent, and efficient public services.

Initiatives like the "My Account" project further demonstrate a shift towards digital inclusivity and financial transparency, engaging over 230,000 government employees and significantly expanding banking access and services across the region.

Moreover, the strategic investment exceeding $50 million towards digital infrastructure highlights a clear vision for the future, aiming to position the KRG as a regional leader in government technology by 2025. The emphasis on unique personal numbers (UPNs) for streamlining services, reflect a methodical approach to building a modern, citizen-centric government framework.