Koya | University Media

In collaboration with the Directorate of Martyrs and Anfal Affairs in Koya, Koya University held a commemorative event on Monday, May 4, 2026, to mark the anniversary of the genocidal Anfal campaign. The event, titled "Koya Anfal: Through the Lens of Cinema and Documentaries," took place at the University Presidency Hall.

The ceremony was attended by the President of Koya University, Prof. Dr. Mohammed H.S. Zangana, along with government officials, political figures, families of the martyrs, university council members, and students.

Academia’s Role in Preserving National Memory

The event began with the national anthem "Ay Raqib" and a moment of silence for the martyrs. 

In his keynote speech, Prof. Dr. Mohammed H.S. Zangana emphasized Koya University’s commitment as an academic institution to serving society and documenting the Anfal tragedy through scientific and creative methods. Following him, the Director of Martyrs Affairs, Ms. Tavga Hamasalih, highlighted the importance of such collaborations in honoring the victims' legacy.

Anfal through Cinema and Artificial Intelligence 

The program featured a series of poignant screenings:

• The documentary "Return to the Fortress of Death," directed by Mohammed Sayid and produced by Hemin Haseeb, sharing testimonies from "Nugra Salman" survivors.
• The short film ""Hawar and the Pacifier," produced by Koya University’s Directorate of Research Centers using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology—a pioneering step in integrating modern tech with national documentation.
• The documentary "Tobzawa: A Waiting Room Before Hell’s Gate," also by director Mohammed Sayid.

Honoring the Legacy

President Sedeeq and Director Hamasalih honored director Mohammed Sayid and producer Hemin Haseeb for their cinematic contributions. A symbolic candle-lighting ceremony was held for "Hawar," a lone survivor of the Anfal, marking 38 years since the tragedy. The event concluded with an art exhibition featuring paintings and photographs that vividly portrayed the horrors of the Anfal campaign.