Baghdad, Iraq: In early January 2021, raw materials procured by IBM Silk Routes arrived in Iraq for the production of COVID-19 related PPE for use by Customs Police, Border Guard Forces and officials at Border Crossing Points (BCPs).

The raw materials were initially provided to the Border Guard Forces (BGF) at the Ministry of Interior who then supplied their factory in Baghdad with the materials to produce disposable masks. The factory was used to make uniforms for Ministry of Interior officials however it has since been adapted for the production of COVID-19 related PPE.

The quantity of raw materials provided is sufficient for the production of one million masks which are vital in helping to combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Once production is complete, the masks will be distributed to relevant border officials including the 700,000 officials at the Ministry of Interior and 46,000 Border Guard Forces.

These face masks will help Iraqi border officers to protect themselves and others from potential transmission of COVID-19 while on duty, as well as allow them to safely screen travelers, disinfect surfaces and, if necessary, isolate sick travelers.

IBM Silk Routes is an ICMPD project, funded by the European Union, which aims to support the Government of the Republic of Iraq in effectively and efficiently managing its national frontiers.