Iraq and Kuwait Unite to Tackle Dust Storms

In a major move towards regional cooperation on climate challenges, Iraq and Kuwait have united to launch a new project aimed at reducing the growing threat of dust and sandstorms, a problem that has increasingly affected southern Iraq in recent years.

In 2024, the country recorded more than 110 dusty days, leaving skies orange, streets hazy, and hospitals filled with people suffering from respiratory problems.

The project aims not just to react to the problem but to prevent it altogether. It includes planting green belts to stop the desert from spreading, using modern techniques to stabilise sand dunes, and restoring 11 forests to act as natural barriers against the wind.

The initiative is backed by funding from the Kuwait Fund for Development and will be led by Iraq’s Ministry of Agriculture. Technical guidance is being provided by the United Nations, with support from both UN-Habitat and the UN Environment Programme. Around $12.9 million has been allocated to carry out the work over the coming years.

This initiative is not only set to tackle intensifying sandstorms but also signals a growing regional collaboration in the face of climate change.

By working together, Iraq and Kuwait are not only aiming to improve air quality and public health, but also demonstrating what shared responsibility can look like when environmental challenges cross borders.

As one of the first efforts of its kind in the region, the project could set a powerful example, especially for countries facing similar environmental pressures across the Middle East.