Our story
Although Iraq has previously been known for its universal and high-quality healthcare, in recent decades Iraq has been affected by war, sanctions, foreign interventions and conflict which have led to an extreme decline in the Iraqi public health. In the more recent years deregulation and privatisation further weakened and fragmented an already destabilised health system which left great health disparities in the Iraqi population.
Weqaya is established by a group of Netherlands-based Iraqis who all share in the passion and determination to contribute to Iraqi’s health and their well being. We create a strong network of enthusiastic young professionals with diverse professional backgrounds who share their expertise for a healthy Iraq.
Weqaya is Arabic for ‘Prevention’. We believe in accessible healthcare with a focus on prevention and early detection of diseases. Besides our focus on health, we operate on the societal level. Our activities vary from disseminating accessible health information to contributing to the strengthening of organisational and academic skills of Iraq’s youth. In the long run, we aim to provide essential medical care via mobile units in Iraq. Within all of our projects, the voices of the people of Iraq are included and we collaborate with local initiatives.
Within the spectrum of international aid, we distinguish ourselves by putting the importance of an independent Iraq first. Weqaya operates independently and is not affiliated with a political party.
Our mission
We aim to make a sustainable contribution to Iraqi’s health and their well being.