In line with UNDP’s Global Integrated Response and the WHO Iraq Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan, UNDP Iraq launched the project “Support for the COVID-19 Response in Iraq” in April 2020. To ensure agile, quality implementation in a rapidly evolving operational context, UNDP leveraged existing mechanisms and in-house resources to support its COVID-19 response in Iraq. The implementation of UNDP’s COVID-19 response makes use of the operational platforms of the Funding Facility for Stabilization (FFS), the Iraq Social Cohesion Programme and the UNDP Iraq Accelerator Lab.

The number of active COVID-19 cases in Iraq continued to increase during the reporting period (see Figure 1), with the three highest daily case increases since the onset of the pandemic reported in September alone. UNDP’s support to designated healthcare facilities in 15 governorates reached several milestones during the reporting period. Nine purpose-built COVID-19 isolation wards are now completed in Anbar (Fallujah and Ramadi), Basra, Diyala (Baquba), Dohuk, Karbala, Kirkuk, Ninewa (Mosul) and Tikrit (see Figure 2 overleaf). Each facility will receive the equipment needed for functional, 20-bed airborne infection isolation rooms, except Fallujah and Ramadi, which each have 10-bed facilities. UNDP also continues to procure essential personal protective equipment (PPE) for all locations.