Al-Ghadeer Park Opens in Basrah City, Iraq

The European Union, UN-Habitat and local authorities celebrated the opening of Al-Ghadeer park in Jurf Al Melah, Basra. This joint effort to uplift urban communities is part of the project “Increasing Access to Employment Opportunities for Vulnerable Urban Populations in Basra City in Response to the COVID-19 Crisis”. This initiative is aimed at improving livelihoods and encouraging sustainable urban developments.

Key stakeholders including Mr Haider Adnan Hussein, on behalf of the Shatt Al-Arab District; Mr Louay Mohammed Jassim, principal of Al Shaheed Ali Al Mansouri Primary School; and Mr Juan Valle Robles, UN-Habitat Iraq Project Manager were present at the opening event. The programme included a performance by students from Jurf Al Melah, specifically prepared for the occasion, reflecting their appreciation for the newly opened park.

In his speech, Mr Adnan Hussein highlighted the park’s importance saying, “The people of Shatt Al-Arab District deserve a space where they can enjoy quality time, and build strong connections. Through our close collaboration with UN-Habitat and the European Union, we turned their wishes into reality. I am confident that everyone, including Shatt Al-Arab District management, will take good care of this park.”

The Al-Ghadeer park spans 12,000 square metres and features a football pitch, gym area, children’s playground and family gazebos and seating areas. In addition to this, 1,700 trees were planted in Al-Ghadeer park, and all were tailored for Basra’s climate. It represents a cornerstone for community revival, combining environmental sustainability with social inclusion.

Throughout the project, the team conducted extensive community consultation, to ensure that the park addressed the local needs. Unemployed youth received vocational training and job opportunities, gaining valuable skills while contributing to their neighbourhoods transformation.

Mr Juan Valle Robles said, “UN-Habitat is committed to upgrading Basra’s most vulnerable neighbourhoods through sustainable urban development and planning. Our efforts focus on creating more public and green spaces and uplifting the quality of life for all residents. None of this would have been possible without the dedicated partnership of the Basra Governorate, the Directorates, and Shatt Al-Arab District.”

The Al-Ghadeer park embodies eco-conscious development, with solar lighting and drip irrigation systems. Its integration into daily life promises long-term benefits.

Al Ghadeer Park showcases how collaborative, community-led initiatives can transform public spaces, stimulate local economies, and reduce spatial inequalities. By prioritising inclusivity and sustainability, it sets a benchmark for urban development that leaves no one behind.

Source: UNAMI