Iraq’s Ministry of Communications has signed a landmark agreement with global technology leader Nokia to establish the country’s first-ever government-owned data centers. The project marks a significant step in Iraq’s digital transformation journey, aiming to enhance its data sovereignty and build a modern digital infrastructure.
A Foundation For Digital Sovereignty
The new facilities will be constructed to international standards and located at two sites in the capital, Baghdad. They will be responsible for storing and managing critical data domestically and under direct Iraqi oversight, serving both government institutions and private sector clients. This move is designed to safeguard the data of citizens and companies while providing a secure foundation for the country’s expanding digital economy.
Communications Minister Hiyam Al Yasiri highlighted the project’s importance, describing it as a cornerstone of Iraq’s modernization drive. She noted that secure, advanced data centers are vital to complement the ongoing expansion of fiber optic networks and the delivery of faster internet services nationwide.
State-Of-The-Art Infrastructure in Baghdad
The two state-of-the-art data centers will be located at the Al Intisar site and the Al Rasheed exchange in Baghdad’s Al Senak district. According to Nokia, the new facilities will be equipped with cutting-edge global technologies to strengthen Iraq’s digital infrastructure. The project is expected to significantly bolster the country’s e-government services, improve governance, and enhance its capacity to process and store information securely and efficiently.
About The Iraqi Ministry of Communications
The Iraqi Ministry of Communications is the government body responsible for regulating and developing the telecommunications and information technology sector in Iraq. Its mission is to build a modern and reliable communications infrastructure, promote digital literacy, and oversee the national digital transformation strategy to support economic growth and improve public services for all citizens.
Source: MEA TechWatch
