Kirkuk Province facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Kirkuk Governorate
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| Country |  Iraq |
| Capital | Kirkuk |
| Area | |
| • Total | 9,679 km2 (3,737 sq mi) |
| Population
(2017)
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| • Total | 1,259,561 |
| HDI (2017) | 0.677 medium |
The Kirkuk Governorate (also known as Kirkuk Province) is a region in northern Iraq. It is one of the many governorates, or provinces, that make up the country of Iraq. This area covers about 9,679 square kilometers (3,737 square miles).
In 2017, about 1,259,561 people lived in Kirkuk Governorate. The main city and capital of this region is Kirkuk. The governorate is divided into four smaller areas called districts.
Contents
A Look at Kirkuk's History
From 1976 to 2006, this region had a different name: At-Ta'mim Governorate. This name means "Nationalization." It was chosen because the government took control of the large amounts of oil and natural gas found in the area. This meant the oil and gas belonged to the whole country, not private companies.
Why the Name Change?
The name "At-Ta'mim" was used during a time when the Iraqi government wanted to show that the country's natural resources, like oil, were owned by the nation. After 2003, the name was changed back to Kirkuk Governorate. This change reflected the desire to return to the historical name of the region.
Geography and Location
Kirkuk Governorate is located in a very important part of northern Iraq. It sits on a flat plain, but it also has some hills and mountains. The region is known for its fertile land, which is good for farming.
Important Rivers and Water Sources
Several rivers and streams flow through Kirkuk, making the land rich and suitable for agriculture. These water sources are vital for the people living there. They help with irrigation for crops and provide drinking water.
People and Culture
Kirkuk Governorate is home to many different groups of people. This makes it a very diverse place with a rich mix of cultures and traditions. People from various backgrounds live and work together in this region.
Languages Spoken in Kirkuk
Because of its diverse population, several languages are spoken in Kirkuk. The main languages include Arabic, Kurdish, and Turkmen. This mix of languages shows the different communities that call Kirkuk home.
Economy and Resources
The economy of Kirkuk Governorate is mainly based on its rich natural resources. The most important resource is oil. The region has some of the largest oil and natural gas reserves in Iraq.
Oil and Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry is very important for Kirkuk. It provides many jobs for the people and brings a lot of money to the region and the country. The oil is drilled from underground and then processed.
Agriculture and Farming
Besides oil, agriculture is also a key part of Kirkuk's economy. The fertile land allows farmers to grow many different crops. Wheat, barley, and other grains are commonly grown here.
Districts of Kirkuk Governorate
The Kirkuk Governorate is divided into four main administrative areas. These are called districts, and each one has its own local government.
- Kirkuk District
- Daquq District
- Dibis District
- Hawija District
These districts help manage the different parts of the governorate. They ensure that services like schools, hospitals, and roads are available to everyone.
See also
In Spanish: Gobernación de Kirkuk para niños
