VOICED: Date palm decline: Iraq looks to rebuild

The video discusses the impact of decades of conflict on agriculture in Basra, Iraq, focusing on the decline of date palm production. Despite government replanting programs, farmers face challenges such as lack of support, soil salinization, and land mines. The historical significance of dates as a major export is highlighted, along with efforts to rebuild the agricultural sector. However, many farmers struggle due to reduced supply and insufficient government assistance.

What is one of the main issues faced by farmers in Basra due to lack of government support?

• Absence of chemical fertilizers and machinery

• Lack of access to water

• Poor quality of seeds

• High cost of labor

Before 1980, what was Iraq's second largest export after oil?

• Dates

• Cotton

• Rice

• Wheat

What was the purpose of the $150 million project implemented by the Iraqi government in 2005?

• To import modern farming equipment

• To build new agricultural schools

• To increase the number of date palm trees

• To improve irrigation systems

What are some of the challenges faced by Iraqi plantation farms?

• Lack of skilled labor

• Insect infestations

• Soil salinization and electricity shortages

• Frequent floods

What has been a significant barrier to farmers returning to their land?

• Lack of transportation

• Land mines

• High taxes

• Unfavorable weather conditions