Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 52 years of experience in agronomy, land and water management, and environmental sectors, the expert is highly skilled in project management, program implementation, teaching, research, planning, and administration. Career highlights include leading national and international projects with organizations like FAO, UNDP, UNESCO, and UNEP, focusing on agriculture, water resources, and environmental conservation. Previously held roles such as Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation and Director General of Agriculture Research, the expert has overseen significant initiatives in Iraq's agricultural and environmental development sectors.

Project experience and donor exposure

With a background in collaboration with international donors, the expert has worked with FAO, UNDP, UNESCO, UNEP, ICBA, Crown Agents Japan Limited, Wageningen University and Research, ACSAD, AOAD, IOM-FAO, USDA/FAS, and ICARDA. Responsibilities have included project management, technical assistance, and capacity building in thematic areas like agriculture, water resources, environment, and land degradation. These projects have been national and sector-specific, primarily conducted in Iraq, focusing on enhancing agricultural practices, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked across diverse projects involving sectors such as environment and climate, water, sanitation and hygiene, research and innovation, and agriculture and rural development. Background includes positions at the governmental level, such as Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation and Director General of Agriculture Research. The expert's interdisciplinary expertise encompasses project management, policy development, and implementation, with a focus on integrating water management and environmental conservation in agricultural practices. The geographic scope of work has been primarily country-specific to Iraq, addressing both national and sector-specific challenges.

Languages and education

With a strong educational background, the expert holds a Doctorate (Ph.D.) and a Master of Science in Agronomy/Land and Water Management from Colorado State University, USA, and a degree in Agronomy (Soil Science) from the University of Baghdad, Iraq. Language competences include fluency in Arabic, the native language, and English. These skills have been utilized extensively throughout the expert's career in Iraq, facilitating effective communication in international and multilingual settings. Proficiency in these languages has supported work with global organizations such as FAO, UNDP, UNESCO, and UNEP, where clear communication and collaboration with diverse teams were essential.