The project was implemented in response to the challenges faced by rural communities in Ninewa Governorate after years of conflict, deterioration of agricultural infrastructure, rising youth unemployment, as well as the impacts of climate change and water scarcity. The project adopted an integrated approach combining social cohesion, livelihood support, and sustainable natural resource management, with a strong focus on agriculture as a key driver of economic and environmental stability.
First: Peacebuilding and Community Structures Supporting Agriculture
In 2022, Peace Committees were established and activated in Bashiqa and Telkaif, with capacity building provided in leadership and conflict management. In 2023, a Training of Trainers (TOT) program was delivered for Peace Committee members, focusing on communication skills, conflict analysis, and facilitation of community dialogue.
Six community dialogues were organized in 2022 with the participation of 60 individuals (men and women), addressing social stability and economic challenges, particularly disputes related to agricultural land and water resources.
Eight social cohesion initiatives were implemented in 2022, including tree planting campaigns in Bashiqa and Telkaif, heritage exhibitions, local production bazaars, and initiatives such as “Peace Tree,” “I Am Diverse,” and “Learning in Peace.” The tree planting campaigns directly contributed to improving green cover and raising environmental awareness.
In 2023, additional initiatives were implemented by Peace Committees, including a local market supporting agricultural products in Telkaif, an awareness campaign on peaceful coexistence, and cultural initiatives promoting social cohesion, positively impacting the local agricultural economy.
Second: Agricultural Training and Capacity Building for Farmers
This component represented the core of the project. In 2022, 300 beneficiaries (180 men and 120 women) received 13 days of agricultural business management training covering:
• Agricultural business plan development
• Local market assessment
• Agricultural value chain concepts
• Food security principles
• Small agricultural enterprise management
In 2023, an additional 300 beneficiaries were trained under an enhanced curriculum incorporating water-use efficiency, sustainable soil management, and climate-appropriate crop selection.
Life skills sessions were also delivered to 305 beneficiaries to strengthen their confidence and management capabilities in running agricultural enterprises.
Third: Agricultural Grants and Green Economy Promotion
In 2022, 131 agricultural grants were distributed, each valued at approximately 2,250,000 Iraqi Dinars, following business plan evaluation and field verification visits. In 2023, 62 additional grants were distributed using the same transparent mechanism.
The grants supported environmentally sustainable projects, including:
• Water-efficient greenhouses
• Beekeeping to enhance natural pollination
• Sustainable livestock management
• Seasonal vegetable farming
• Introduction of drip irrigation systems
These grants improved agricultural productivity, reduced water waste, and increased rural household incomes.
Fourth: Specialized Agricultural Vocational Training
In 2023, vocational training programs were implemented for 50 beneficiaries in specialized areas:
Beekeeping Management
Ten women received hands-on training in hive management, bee health, and honey production, supporting biodiversity and improving crop yields.
Greenhouse Management: Ten beneficiaries completed a 30-day training program on greenhouse establishment and management, enhancing productivity and reducing dependency on traditional seasons.
Livestock Management: Ten women were trained in cattle and poultry management, including preventive health measures.
Crop Management: Ten beneficiaries were trained in seed selection, fertilization, pest control, and soil fertility improvement.
Irrigation Management: Ten beneficiaries were trained in drip and sprinkler irrigation systems and water-saving techniques.
Each training included a 25 percent practical component to ensure field application.
Fifth: Agricultural Apprenticeship Program
The apprenticeship program targeted 75 beneficiaries and focused on practical field experience in:
• Wheat and barley cultivation
• Potato and vegetable production
• Food processing
• Poultry farming
• Livestock management
This program strengthened practical skills and connected youth directly to the agricultural labor market.
Sixth: Natural Resource Management and Environmental Advocacy
Natural Resource Management Committees were formed in Bashiqa and Telkaif, including representatives from agriculture, water departments, municipalities, and civil society.
An advocacy conference on water scarcity was held in Bashiqa with 101 participants, and another conference on agricultural land investment was held in Telkaif with 106 participants.
Key recommendations included:
• Adoption of conservation agriculture (no-till farming)
• Construction of rainwater harvesting dams
• Protection of agricultural land from residential conversion
• Supporting farmers with modern equipment
• Establishment of a Higher Agricultural Council in Ninewa
• Regulation of imports to protect local products
Seventh: Linking Farmers with Financial Institutions and Value Chains
Awareness sessions were organized for 50 farmers on agricultural loans to enable structured business expansion. Additionally, 50 beneficiaries were linked within agricultural value chains, connecting livestock breeders with grain farmers and vegetable producers with traders, thereby enhancing efficiency and productivity.
Eighth: Capacity Building for Service Departments
Five training sessions were conducted for service department staff in administration, communication, conflict prevention, and diversity and inclusion, contributing to improved agricultural and water service management.
Conclusion: During 2022 and 2023, the project established an integrated model linking social stability with sustainable agricultural development. Through training, grants, natural resource management, and environmental advocacy, rural communities in Ninewa strengthened their capacity to address environmental and economic challenges.
The experience demonstrated that investing in sustainable agriculture and improved natural resource management is an effective pathway to strengthening community resilience, supporting the local economy, and reducing resource-related conflicts in post-conflict areas.