In response to the urgent public health crisis caused by the spread of meningitis, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has taken swift action by allocating 200 million dinars specifically for Halabja. This substantial funding aims to tackle the outbreak and protect the residents of the region from further harm.

The decision to allocate this significant financial resource was prompted by a letter from KRG Chief of Staff Omid Sabah to the Ministry of Finance and Economy on May 15, 2023. The letter emphasized the urgency of the situation and underscored the need for immediate measures to halt the outbreak of meningitis in Halabja Governorate.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the World Health Organization (WHO) has collaborated with the Iraqi Ministry of Health to deploy a team of experts to the affected areas. This joint effort was officially announced by the WHO on May 9. The team's primary objective is to address the escalating cases of meningitis in both Halabja and Sulaimani governorates, which have been experiencing a surge in infections since mid-April 2023.

Prime Minister Barzani's allocation of 200 million dinars demonstrates his commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of the people of Halabja. The funds will be utilized to implement comprehensive strategies and measures to combat the spread of meningitis, provide necessary medical resources, and support healthcare facilities in the affected region.

This proactive approach by the government underscores its determination to effectively address the public health crisis and ensure the safety of its citizens. The collaboration with the WHO and the Iraqi Ministry of Health further highlights the collective efforts being made to contain and overcome the meningitis outbreak in Halabja and Sulaimani governorates.

As the situation evolves, the government will continue to monitor and respond to the outbreak, employing all necessary measures to protect the health and well-being of the residents of Halabja and the surrounding areas.

By Kobin Ferhad