On Saturday, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani launched several significant infrastructure and industrial projects, emphasizing his government’s commitment to driving economic growth, expanding housing, and strengthening industrial capabilities. The announcements were made during a video conference, with government representatives present at various project locations.
Al-Sudani highlighted a long-term strategy aimed at enhancing Iraq’s economic resilience by addressing key infrastructure challenges, particularly in housing. He acknowledged the country’s ongoing housing shortage, which stands at an estimated 3 to 3.5 million units. In response, the government has granted investment licenses for over one million new homes across several provinces.
The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of reducing Iraq’s dependence on imported construction materials. He called for investment in domestic manufacturing, including cement and steel plants, to support urban growth and ensure industrial self-sufficiency.
As part of this broader economic initiative, the government unveiled three major projects:
- The Al-Dhawari Iron and Steel Factory in the Suleiman Bek district of Saladin,
- The Hydrogen Pharmaceutical Plant in Karbala, specializing in cancer treatment medications,
- The Al-Fatha Bridge over the Tigris River, connecting Saladin and Kirkuk provinces.
According to the Prime Minister’s Media Office, these projects are designed to enhance Iraq’s industrial base, improve healthcare access, and modernize transportation infrastructure, all of which are crucial to advancing the country’s economic independence.
Reviving a Crucial Transport Link
The reopening of the Al-Fatha Bridge marks a key milestone in Iraq’s infrastructure recovery efforts. Originally built in 1979 by Japan’s Sumitomo Construction and designed by the UK’s Mott, Hay & Anderson, this 540-meter bridge has long been an essential route for transporting goods, agriculture, and oil between provinces.
The bridge suffered extensive damage over the years, including during the Gulf War in 1991, subsequent conflicts in 2003, and severe destruction in 2015 due to terrorist attacks. Reconstruction efforts began in December 2019, but were delayed due to adjustments needed for oil and gas pipelines. In 2024, structural assessments revealed significant damage to a critical support pillar, and extensive repairs are currently underway. The bridge is expected to be fully completed by November 2024.
Saladin Governor Badr Al-Fahl, who attended the reopening ceremony, praised the project as a “significant achievement” and stressed the need for ongoing maintenance to ensure the bridge’s long-term functionality. He also emphasized the positive impact on trade, mobility, and economic growth across the region.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani reiterated that these infrastructure and industrial projects are part of the government’s broader strategy to boost economic growth, develop local industries, expand affordable housing, and modernize Iraq’s transportation networks. He confirmed that further investments in infrastructure, energy, and industry are planned, with additional projects expected to be announced in the coming months.