Foundation Stone Laid for Strategic Agricultural Gene Bank in Slemani

A ceremony was held in Slemani to mark the laying of the foundation stone for a major strategic agricultural gene bank, the first of its kind in the Kurdistan Region. The event was attended by Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG); Begard Talabani, Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources; Haval Abubakir, Governor of Slemani; and Salah Al-Hajj Hassan, Iraq Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The gene bank, located on a 100-acre site, will serve as a leading scientific centre dedicated to collecting, preserving, and studying the seeds and plant diversity of Iraq. Its mission is to maintain the authenticity of native plant species, support their development, advance scientific research, and foster collaboration between academic institutions, research bodies, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources.

The Kurdistan Region was chosen for this project because it hosts approximately 75% of Iraq’s plant diversity, including about 150 species of native Kurdish plants. These species will be collected, preserved, and protected in the gene bank to safeguard their unique genetic identity and promote their development for future generations.

In addition to its conservation role, the centre will function as a scientific and academic hub, offering resources and facilities for researchers, students, and professionals interested in plant genetics and biodiversity.

This project represents the second gene bank established in Iraq and the most strategically significant initiative of its kind since 1977. It is being developed in Slemani with financial and technical support from the FAO and the European Union.