Iraqi Prime Minister Launches Economic Initiatives in Al-Muthanna Governorate
Visit Overview
On Thursday, Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shi’a Al-Sudani made a significant visit to Al-Muthanna Governorate in southern Iraq. The prime objective of this visit was to inaugurate and advance the executive operations of various productive and service-oriented projects within the region.
Key Projects Announced
During his visit, Al-Sudani officially launched the development of the Gazoa Investment Power Station, designed to produce 250 megawatts of electricity. This facility is poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing the energy capacity for the national grid and stimulating economic activity.
Additionally, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Al-Anaam Complex, which focuses on trade and livestock, as well as the processing of food and agricultural goods. This project, which hinges on private sector investment, carries a budget of $370 million.
Infrastructure and Economic Impact
Al-Sudani noted that the establishment of the Gazoa Power Station would serve as a cornerstone for industrial and investment activities in Al-Muthanna. The infrastructure, which includes electricity networks and road access, is expected to facilitate private sector operations across various industries.
"The Samawah Power Station will significantly contribute to feeding the national energy network, ensuring security and enhancing production capabilities," he remarked. The project encompasses an area of 2,000 dunams and involves a total investment of $225 million, featuring two turbine units, each with a capacity of 125 megawatts. It will operate primarily on natural gas but has the flexibility to utilize heavy oil as an alternative fuel source.
The project is currently on track, thanks to imported equipment from the American General Electric Company (GE), with work progressing swiftly in accordance with established quality standards. The expected duration for project completion is 24 months.
This power station is part of the broader Samaa Industrial Axis initiative, which aims to develop the industrial framework required for economic activities in the planned economic city of Samawah. The city is envisioned to become a hub for attracting small, medium, and large enterprises that will ultimately contribute to the revitalization of Iraq’s national economy.
Residential and Educational Initiatives
In addition to energy projects, Prime Minister Al-Sudani also commenced the development of the Ghadeer residential city, which will feature 40,000 housing units. Notably, 10,000 of these units will be allocated for educational purposes, establishing what could become the largest educational neighborhood in Iraq. Al-Sudani commended the local government’s efforts in providing land for educators, aligning this initiative with the upcoming Teacher’s Day celebrations.
He expressed gratitude for the local administration’s initiative in designating accessible land near the governorate center for residential projects. The Prime Minister highlighted that the approved framework for these residential cities mandates that constructing companies establish educational institutions, health centers, and civil defense facilities.
"Our government’s approach to addressing the housing crisis involves multiple strategies, including the development of residential communities that meet all essential service needs," Al-Sudani stated. He directed local governments to engage with private sector real estate developers to facilitate these housing solutions.
Private Sector Engagement
The Prime Minister also announced the opening of the Arab Integration Factory for Food Production, a private sector initiative with an investment of $33 million. This facility will include a laboratory for packaging tomato paste and processing juices and canned goods.
Additionally, he launched a series of economic projects in the Al-Najmi district, which includes agricultural and livestock initiatives under the Al-Anaam Trading and Livestock Complex. This $370 million investment will enhance local agricultural production, including calf rearing, meat processing, and edible oil refining.
With a development footprint of 60 dunums, these projects are expected to generate significant employment opportunities, engaging at least 300 local workers and substantially boosting the local economy.
Conclusion
The projects initiated by Prime Minister Al-Sudani in Al-Muthanna Governorate underscore the Iraqi government’s commitment to fostering economic growth, infrastructure development, and addressing critical housing needs. These initiatives not only target immediate developmental goals but also seek to lay the groundwork for long-term economic stability and self-sufficiency.
