The Sard Organization for Society Support (SOSS) has successfully completed a comprehensive Socio-Economic Study (SES) of communities surrounding DNO’s operational areas within the Zakho Independent Administration (ZIA), Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

The assignment was designed to provide an updated, evidence-based understanding of the socio-economic conditions, livelihood systems, access to essential services, community perceptions, development needs, and local economic opportunities within the study area.

Main Areas of Assessment

The study examined a wide range of socio-economic themes, including:

• Population and demographic characteristics
• Employment and livelihood conditions
• Household income and expenditure
• Education and vocational training
• Health services
• Agriculture and animal husbandry
• Water, electricity, roads, and housing infrastructure
• Environmental conditions
• Tourism and historical potential
• Investment opportunities and local economic development
• Community perceptions of local development and DNO’s operations
• Institutional coordination and local business engagement

The assignment also included a comparison with previous socio-economic studies conducted in DNO’s operational areas, enabling the research team to identify persistent challenges, changing conditions, and emerging development opportunities.

Proposed Community Development Direction

Based on the evidence collected, SOSS prepared a proposed 5-Year Community Development Plan for 2026–2030. The proposal identifies areas with potential for positive contribution through feasible CSR initiatives, coordination and advocacy efforts, and government-led interventions where appropriate.

Appreciation

SOSS extends its sincere appreciation to DNO, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Zakho Independent Administration, Statistics Directorate in ZIA, local authorities, Mukhtars, community representatives, Key Informants, Focus Group participants, surveyed households, local businesses, and all individuals who contributed to the successful completion of the study. Special appreciation is also extended to the SOSS research, fieldwork, data-management, analysis, translation, and reporting teams for their professionalism and commitment throughout the assignment.