The Kurdistan flood relief campaign gained national attention on Sunday after a major televised fundraising effort. Rudaw lead anchor Ranj Sangawi launched the initiative during a special live broadcast of his program Lagal Ranj. Within less than two hours, the campaign raised more than 5.88 billion Iraqi dinars. That amount equals nearly 4.5 million US dollars. Organizers expect the total to increase as donations continue.
During the broadcast, Sangawi directly contacted prominent Kurdish businessmen and urged immediate humanitarian support. Around fifteen business leaders responded with swift pledges totaling billions of dinars. Their contributions aimed to support families whose homes and livelihoods suffered destruction. As the program continued, public interest and engagement visibly increased across the region.
Meanwhile, recent flooding caused widespread devastation in several areas of the Kurdistan Region. Chamchamal experienced the heaviest damage from flash floods. According to the Joint Crisis Coordination Center, two people died in the district. Additionally, twelve others sustained injuries. Floodwaters damaged 1,607 homes and destroyed nearly 200 vehicles.
Moreover, the disaster severely disrupted local commerce and infrastructure. Officials reported damage to 115 shops and workplaces. The floods also affected around 450 public and private projects. Consequently, many residents lost income sources alongside housing. Recovery efforts now face serious logistical and financial challenges.
In addition, the agricultural sector suffered significant losses. Floodwaters killed approximately 15,000 chicks across local farms. Farmers warned of long-term economic consequences. As a result, officials expressed concern over future food supply stability in affected areas.
At the same time, humanitarian organizations launched emergency relief operations. Aid groups concentrated efforts in Chamchamal neighborhoods. Volunteers distributed food, blankets, and essential supplies. Teams also assisted residents with debris removal and basic repairs. These efforts helped stabilize conditions in the immediate aftermath.
During a Sunday press conference, Kurdistan Region Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani addressed the crisis. He described the Chamchamal flood as a natural disaster. However, he stressed that preventive measures could have reduced damage. Therefore, authorities initiated investigations into administrative performance.
Talabani confirmed that officials reviewed several local government departments. Investigators identified five individuals whose actions worsened the situation. Four of them accepted responsibility and resigned voluntarily. Those officials included Chamchamal Mayor Ramk Ramazan and Municipality Chief Aram Najat.
Education Director Abdullah Hama Karakash also resigned. Burhan Abdullah, head of Shorish municipality, stepped down as well. According to Talabani, these resignations aimed to reinforce accountability and restore public trust.
Meanwhile, organizers clarified how the collected funds will reach victims. A specialized committee will oversee distribution under Kurdistan Region laws. Financial regulations will guide every stage of the process. Officials emphasized transparency and public reporting throughout implementation.
Rudaw Media Network will transfer donations to the Chamchamal Relief and Reconstruction Commission. The commission will distribute aid to eligible families across affected districts. Sangawi confirmed continued oversight and public updates.
Importantly, the Kurdistan flood relief campaign continues Sangawi’s long-standing humanitarian work. In 2015, he led fundraising for families of fallen Peshmerga fighters. In 2017, he organized major aid after the Darbandikhan earthquake. That quake killed five people and damaged more than 120 buildings.
Finally, Sangawi pledged ongoing support beyond the broadcast. He said assistance will continue after cameras turn off. The Kurdistan flood relief campaign will remain active during recovery efforts.
