In Erbil... Establishment of a Rehabilitation and Treatment Center for Drug Addicts
On Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Omed Khoshnaw, Governor of Erbil, received a delegation from the American humanitarian organization (LDS) at the governorate office.
The delegation, led by the organization's Director for the Middle East and Africa, included the Project Manager for the region and several volunteer members.
They visited Erbil to discuss developing and expanding their humanitarian activities in the Kurdistan Region. During the meeting, discussions highlighted the 12-year history of joint cooperation between the LDS organization and the Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF). Over this period, the organization has contributed approximately $12 million USD through the BCF to implement various projects and provide humanitarian, health, and social assistance.
The Governor of Erbil commended the collaborative efforts between the organization and the BCF. He placed particular emphasis on one of the organization's most significant initiatives: the project to establish a rehabilitation and treatment center for drug addicts in Erbil. This project, implemented in partnership with the BCF, aims to provide psychological and physical treatment services. It is designed to assist youth and individuals struggling with addiction, enabling their safe and healthy reintegration into society through scientific methods.
The meeting also addressed the significance of this project alongside the legislative steps taken by the Kurdistan Parliament to combat the drug phenomenon. Stressing the severe risks associated with this issue, the Governor of Erbil stated that combating drug addiction requires joint cooperation, practical measures, and scientific solutions, noting that it remains a top priority for the government.
Furthermore, the discussions highlighted the vital role of the atmosphere of peaceful coexistence and harmony among the diverse communities in Erbil and the Kurdistan Region. This experience was praised as a significant global model for peace and coexistence.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Governor of Erbil expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the ongoing cooperation between the LDS organization and the BCF. He reaffirmed that the Erbil Governorate will provide all necessary facilitation and support to ensure the success of these humanitarian and health initiatives—projects that will play a crucial role in safeguarding public health, maintaining social security, and strengthening the foundations of peaceful coexistence in Erbil.
