On World Cleanup Day, we (Waterkeepers Iraq, Kurdistan) organized our second cleanup campaign as part of the Empowering Kurdistan for Waterway Conservation and Environmental Advocacy! to protect water resources and the environment at the island of collapsed caves in Dukan Lake.
Around 40 volunteers cleaned the island, collected plastic, glass, and other waste, and left the area spotless. After the cleanup, the volunteers enjoyed an unforgettable time with music, swimming, and food.
We want to thank the volunteers, the Experience Wilderness Club, Mr. Wahab, and Mr. Haroon as the captains of our Tarada and other boats who volunteered and participated with great enthusiasm. We are proud of you.
Sida funds this project - Sida - Styrelsen för Internationellt Utvecklingssamarbete (The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) in partnership with NPA Iraq (Norwegian People's Aid), with Waterkeepers Iraq (WKI) as the cooperating partner.

The (Traditional Iraqi Boats Exhibition) has been opened to visitors and now you can visit and get acquainted with Iraq's beautiful and unique culture in dealing with water and means of transportation in ancient times.
The exhibition features boats such as Gufa, Kalak, Mashhof, Tarada, and taxis-Knu that once transported people, trade, and goods from one city to another on their backs. The exhibition aims to connect contemporary people and our ancient roots and culture.

We are delighted to announce the successful completion of our first cleaning campaign under the Empowering Kurdistan for Waterway Conservation and Environmental Advocacy!, aimed at cleaning areas of the environment around the Topzawa area near Dukan Lake.
Thirty-five volunteers participated in the campaign, and we successfully cleaned the area of significant amounts of plastic and harmful waste. This effort creates a cleaner and more suitable environment for local wildlife and raises environmental awareness.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants for their voluntary and enthusiastic efforts. We are proud of your dedication and commitment.
This campaign is just the beginning; many more cleaning activities and initiatives are planned for our project. We look forward to continuing our efforts to protect the environment of Kurdistan together.
This project is funded by Sida - Styrelsen för Internationellt Utvecklingssamarbete (The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) in partnership with NPA Iraq (Norwegian People's Aid), with Waterkeepers Iraq (WKI) as the cooperating partner.

The Waterkeepers Iraq/Kurdistan participated in a special program on Kurdsat Broadcasting Corporation, where we discussed the creation of our club, which encourages people to swim, boat, and explore nature. During the program, we highlighted the purpose and details of the club and showcased the various types and styles of boats on display.
Our exhibition and club are located within Paia Studio, alongside many other artistic, environmental, and cultural organizations. These groups have come together under the umbrella of Paya Studio, using it as a platform for their performances and activities.