Baghdad: The Minister of Water Resources, Dr. Muthanna al-Tamimi, has directed that November 1st be adopted as the date for launching a major national campaign to remove encroachments on the irrigation system.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during the seventh meeting of the Ministry’s Advisory Board for 2026, which included senior ministry officials and representatives from its various departments, as well as an advisor to the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture, Water, Marshes, and Environment, al-Tamimi emphasized the importance of all ministry officials and staff adhering to the principles of integrity and transparency. He urged them to redouble efforts to improve institutional performance. Al-Tamimi instructed the directors general to intensify field monitoring of water hyacinth infestations and eradicate them before they spread, while providing him with regular updates on progress and the measures taken.

The minister highlighted the necessity of continuously evaluating employee performance and recognizing the efforts of outstanding employees, which will contribute to enhancing the efficiency of government work and solidifying the ministry’s position as a service institution that directly impacts citizens’ lives.

The attendees discussed the overall water situation in the country through a comprehensive review of the current water landscape and the procedures in place for managing water resources. They also examined the progress of government program projects and the proposed financial allocations for the 2026 operational budget and special programs.

Al-Tamimi directed that November 1, 2026, be set as the launch date for a major national campaign to remove encroachments on the irrigation system, including illegally constructed fish farms, with the aim of achieving equitable water distribution and ensuring access for all beneficiaries according to established regulations.

The meeting also addressed the distribution of residential land plots to ministry employees to support their livelihoods and improve their living conditions. The advisory board approved a draft memorandum of understanding in the field of water between the Ministry of Water Resources and its Algerian counterpart, which will contribute to the exchange of expertise and technical experiences and the development of water resource management mechanisms.

During the meeting, a presentation was given on the stages of updating the strategic study for water and land resources up to 2035, in line with current water-related changes and promoting optimal management of surface and groundwater. The presentation also reviewed the design phases for the Basra Governorate’s dam project.