Sulaimani residents brave challenging journey to reconnect with roots

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Dozens of people in Sulaimani province on Friday braved a risky journey back to their village to reconnect with their roots, calling on the government to improve access by building proper roads and a bridge.

The journey to Libana village in Qaladze district is risky, and the Little Zab River has made it even more challenging. Still, determined to make the trip, people who originate from the village ventured back to there.

“We organized this journey ourselves, pooling our own money. Everyone chipped in to repair the roads so we could come back here. We decided to return to our village every year. Around 300 to 400 people have participated in the trip each year. They come from all cities. We have also invited many guests to join us,” Osman Salim, one of the people who joined the trip, told Rudaw. 

The journey isn’t just about returning to a place but also strengthening social bonds among families and neighbors.

Residents of Libana rely on Qaladze for their daily needs due to its proximity.

Abubakir Ismail contributed to this article.