The Iraq Development Fund and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate youth empowerment and promote sustainable growth within Iraq’s green and digital economies. The agreement, signed in Baghdad on October 13, 2025, aims to strengthen Iraq’s private sector, create jobs, and foster inclusive economic development.
Mohammed Al-Najjar, Executive Director of the Iraq Development Fund, described the partnership as a “qualitative leap” for Iraq’s economy. He highlighted GIZ’s long-standing contributions, noting that the German agency has invested nearly $1 billion in Iraq since 2014 to support economic and human development. Al-Najjar said the collaboration will integrate financing into empowerment programs, helping the government advance a sustainable, innovation-driven economy.
Jörn Broihans, GIZ representative, emphasized that the initiative—funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)—focuses on expanding employment opportunities in the digital and green sectors. Discussions are also underway with the European Union for additional funding to scale the program’s impact.
The project is anchored on four key pillars:
- Strengthening micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to boost entrepreneurship.
- Building capacity among small businesses and individuals through training and mentorship.
- Improving access to finance for young innovators and entrepreneurs.
- Developing policy frameworks and legal systems that support sustainable economic growth.
Broihans noted that the partnership represents an exemplary model of collaboration between international organizations and national institutions—combining expertise, resources, and funding to deliver tangible results for Iraqi youth.
By merging financial empowerment with digital and green innovation, the Iraq Development Fund and GIZ aim to build a resilient, inclusive economy that positions Iraq for long-term growth and sustainability.
