“A pickle product worth trying in Erbil,” USAID

Haj Othman sought USAID’s help to improve food safety processes and expand his business online.

Dler S. Mohammed 2022/02/12 18:50

Haj Othman's preserved foods in Erbil, Kurdistan Region. (Photo: USAID)

Kurdistan Haj Othman Pickle USAID IGPANIFI’s Program Erbil Kurdistan Region

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) helps a local business in Erbil improve food safety processes and achieve business growth online.

“A pickle product worth trying in Erbil,” is the title of the USAID`s Facebook post, advertising the preserved foods of Erbil local, Haj Othman. “If pickled food is what you like, Haj Othman says theirs is one of the best in Erbil.”

Haj Othman produces a wide variety of preserved foods, among them the uniquely flavored sliced cucumber with pomegranate juice -- a local favorite.

Haj Othman sought USAID’s help to improve food safety processes and expand his business online.

“USAID`s IGPA/NIFI (Iraq Governance and Performance Accountability/Ninewa Investment Facilitation Initiative) programs provided instructions for improving food quality and marketing, and made a difference in our operations,” Haj Othman said.

Like most businesses, Haj Othman’s company was affected by the extended lockdowns.

“Thankfully, business is beginning to pick up again,” he said. “With our improved product development processes and knowledge of social media marketing techniques, learned from the USAID IGPA/NIFI’s program, we are hoping to increase our sales.”