In late October 2025, a wave of toxic oil spills began unfolding across Sulaymaniyah Province, starting in Khalakan and quickly spreading to Torba, Piramagrun, Tanjaro, Arbat, Sharazoor, Derbandikhan, and Penjwen. The spills involve hazardous waste from illegal refinery operations—highly poisonous materials dumped directly into valleys, grazing lands, and waterways. These contaminants now threaten Dukan and Darbandikhan reservoirs, the drinking water of over two million people, and the health of wildlife, livestock, and communities. Despite one site receiving partial treatment, most locations remain untouched, and recent rains have worsened the spread. This escalating crisis demands urgent action, accountability, and long-term environmental restoration. 

Presented by Waterkeepers Iraq Organization
In Partnership with Culture Factory & Paia Studio
With Support From EPIC & SGP International

Waterkeepers Iraq/Kurdistan conducted significant meetings with key environmental officials and stakeholders in Dukan district. The first meeting took place with the Dukan Forest Police Directorate, represented by Mr. Wahab Ahmad, followed by a second meeting with the Governor of Dukan District, Mr. Sirwan Sarhad Khalifa Younis.
The primary purpose of these meetings was to formalize a memorandum of understanding between our organization, the Dukan Forest Police Directorate, and the Dukan District Governor's Office to collaborate on hosting a festival in April as part of the “Empowering Kurdistan for Waterway Conservation and Environmental Advocacy” project.
Additionally, the discussions addressed the safety concerns related to the use of jet skis on Dukan Lake. Our organization presented a petition signed by over 270 individuals expressing their protest against these dangers.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Dukan District Governor's Office and the Dukan Forest Police Directorate for their invaluable cooperation and support.

​Waterkeepers Iraq and Kurdistan participated in Azadbwn Oranization’s event to collaborate on planning and programming efforts for the next three years.
With environmental issues and disasters already identified through ongoing research and the activities of our organization, the selection of Waterkeeper Iraq/Kurdistan, particularly Nabil Musa, aimed to prioritize addressing and resolving these challenges.
A wide range of diverse approaches, tools, and methods were proposed and presented as part of this initiative.

A 3 days Environmental Monitoring Training, organized by The Waterkeepers Iraq and Kurdistan Organization, was held at the Mihrako Hotel in Sulaimani on Thursday.
The training aims to raise awareness, share environmental information, and equip participants to become environmental monitors and advocates. Initially, the training agenda was presented, followed by a discussion on the history, establishment, activities, and projects of the Waterkeepers of Iraq and Kurdistan. Climate change was also among the various topics discussed.
Sida funds this training - 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.

We had a great meeting with U.S. Consulate General Erbil: Neil Gundavda, Econ Unit Chief, Ibrahim Ibrahim, Economic Assistant, Dara Saeed Commercial Assistant, and Zuleikha Kareem Cultural Advisor at our office at Culture Factory.
Nabil Ibrahim Musa, the CEO of Waterkeepers Iraq-Kurdistan, began the meeting by introducing Waterkeepers and sharing the story behind its foundation. He detailed how the organization addresses natural and environmental crises on a daily basis.
Several projects and activities were presented, and many common interests were discussed. Mr. Neil Gundavda expressed his appreciation for the efforts and accomplishments Waterkeepersers Iraq-Kurdistan. He emphasized the importance of establishing a collaborative partnership between both parties as soon as possible.

Waterkeepers Iraq-Kurdistan Organization conducted an inspection trip to monitor environmental pollution along the roads from Sulaymaniyah to Kirkuk and from Kirkuk to Erbil. Our key findings are alarming:
We observed severe air pollution from black smoke emissions, particularly from oil refineries in Bazyan and between Kirkuk and Erbil, which are significantly harming air quality. Additionally, numerous unauthorized dumpsites filled with plastic waste and mixed rubbish were found along the route, existing due to a lack of formal waste management systems.
These pollution sources pose long-term risks to the environment and public health. Without intervention, the situation will only worsen.
Urgent action is needed to regulate refinery emissions, establish waste management programs, and raise awareness about illegal dumping. Let's work together to protect our environment and health!

Waterkeepers of Iraq-Kurdistan perform at the Open Festival in Basra with lanterns and traditional boats.
Nabil Musa, the Iraqi-Kurdistan Waterkeeper, called the festival an important opportunity to reconcile and introduce the new generation to Iraqi culture and the simple lifestyle of the past.
An extraordinary acknowledgement for Ark Re-imagined (Cultural Protection Fund) for the grant funding.

​During the project “Empowering Kurdistan for Waterway Conservation and Environmental Advocacy” a cleaning campaign was conducted in Chapachnara near Delezha village by Waterkeeper Iraq-Kurdistan along with about 50 volunteers.
About 70 bags of garbage were collected and in addition to giving a beautiful appearance to the area, we were able to spread awareness and show our responsibility towards the environment, animals, and birds.

We successfully conducted our third cleaning campaign as part of the “Empowering Kurdistan for Waterway Conservation and Environmental Advocacy” Project. in the Tabin/Kanishok area. The campaign saw the participation of 30 volunteers who collected approximately 85 bags of garbage, cleaning the area of debris and dirt.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our volunteers for enabling us to achieve this humane endeavor together while having a fun and memorable time.
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.

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.

​As part of the "Citizen Science & Environmental Action Network in Iraq" program, Waterkeepers in Iraq and Kurdistan, alongside Senior Expert Sammy Kayyed and Omar Dewachi, led a vital field trip to various environmental hotspots in Sulaymaniyah. Participants conducted hands-on tests to monitor water and air quality, highlighting the importance of local environmental stewardship. These activities not only foster greater awareness but also empower communities to actively engage in protecting their natural resources. The Institute of Regional and International Studies (IRIS), in collaboration with PAX Organization, hosted the first workshop of this program. Led by Senior IRIS Fellow Omar Dewachi and Sammy Kayyed, alongside our team at Waterkeepers, this training is instrumental in building a network of citizen scientists dedicated to environmental action. Such initiatives are crucial for developing sustainable solutions, ensuring that water and air quality are preserved for future generations. Our work reinforces the role of local communities in safeguarding Iraq’s and Kurdistan’s natural heritage.