A Strategic Initiative for Sustainable Water Management

The University of Duhok (UoD), in collaboration with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the Federal German Government, has launched a critical project focused on stabilizing water supply and sanitation services in the Duhok governorate. This initiative is designed to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), refugees, and local host communities by addressing water scarcity and sanitation challenges through sustainable planning and infrastructure development.

This project aligns with UoD’s Strategic Plan for 2023–2038, reinforcing its commitment to community resilience, international partnerships, and sustainable development in line with global education and research standards.

Project Overview

1. Project Title:

“Stabilization of Water Supply and Sanitation Services for Refugees, IDPs, and Residents of Duhok Governorate”

2. Key Details:

• Start Date: 15 March 2018

• Project Duration: 9 months

• Budget: €80,000

• Grant Holder: University of Duhok, Department of Spatial Planning and Applied Sciences

3. Partner Organizations:

• Directorate of Water Duhok

• Directorate of Water Outskirts Duhok

• Directorate of Sewerage Duhok

• Board of Relief and Humanitarian Affairs (BRHA)

4. Funder:

• The Federal German Government via GIZ / SWSS Project

Objectives & Impact

1. Addressing Water Scarcity in Duhok Governorate

• Analyze the impact of rapid urbanization and refugee influx on water demand.

• Develop strategies to manage water consumption and sustainability.

• Evaluate existing water infrastructure and future expansion needs.

2. Enhancing Sanitation & Public Health

• Improve sewage and sanitation systems for host communities and IDPs.

• Develop frameworks for efficient water resource management.

• Establish sustainable wastewater treatment solutions to minimize environmental impact.

3. Long-Term Water Sector Strategy

• Project population growth scenarios and their impact on water demand.

• Assess the willingness and ability of displaced communities to return to their places of origin.

• Propose long-term infrastructure development plans to meet future needs.

Key Research Areas & Implementation Strategy

Phase 1: Data Collection & Needs Assessment

• Conduct a comprehensive analysis of water demand trends.

• Assess current and projected population growth scenarios.

• Identify high-risk areas with critical water shortages.

Phase 2: Strategy Development & Policy Recommendations

• Develop humanitarian intervention scenarios for water resource management.

• Provide policy recommendations for efficient water supply governance.

• Establish collaborative frameworks with local authorities and stakeholders.

Phase 3: Infrastructure Planning & Sustainability Measures

• Investigate new water supply sources and storage solutions.

• Improve water conservation and consumption efficiency.

• Implement pilot projects for sustainable water management in high-need areas.

Strategic Importance of the Project

This initiative reinforces UoD’s role as a leader in applied sciences and community-focused research, emphasizing:

• Sustainable resource management to mitigate the impact of displacement.

• Enhanced resilience of water supply systems in conflict-affected regions.

• Long-term planning to support economic and social stability in Kurdistan.

By collaborating with GIZ and local water authorities, the University of Duhok is taking a proactive role in tackling water security challenges and contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future for the region.

Get Involved & Learn More

We welcome academic institutions, NGOs, and development agencies to collaborate on sustainable water and sanitation projects. Join us in creating a lasting impact on water resource management in the Kurdistan Region.

Explore more about this initiative at DOIR’s partnership webpage.