Iraq’s Ministry of Agriculture distributes over 200,000 seedlings to combat desertification

BAGHDAD, October 9 — The Ministry of Agriculture announced on Monday the distribution of more than 200,000 citrus, olive, and palm seedlings to government institutions, farmers, and citizens as part of efforts to combat desertification.

Hadi Al-Yasiri, Director-General of the Ministry’s Horticulture Department, stated in an interview with Al-Sabah newspaper that his department had distributed the seedlings as part of a set of programs to combat desertification and increase green spaces in the country. The initiative specifically chose native species of citrus and olives plants.

“The Department has formed a committee to prepare over 30,000 palm seedlings and ornamental trees for planting on both sides of the Atomic Energy Road, which is five kilometers long and has been closed since the 1980s. It is scheduled to be opened soon, after being equipped with road signs and lighting,” Al-Yasiri stated.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa’ Al-Sudani launched an initiative during the Iraq Climate Conference held in March to plant five million trees and palm trees across the country, accompanied by the first-ever launch of a national guide for urban forestation, aiming to combat desertification and dust storms.