PM Hassan announces key infrastructure, investment plans for Mafraq

Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Tuesday announced a series of development projects aimed at enhancing investment and infrastructure in King Hussein Bin Talal Development Zone, as part of efforts to achieve economic growth in Mafraq Governorate.

The visit to Mafraq is the 5th visit to governorates since Hassan was appointed as Prime Minister, with one visit each month since he took up his post.

Hassan stated that the government is working to attract more investment to the King Hussein Bin Talal Development Zone by improving the business environment and providing necessary incentives, contributing to local economic growth.

The prime minister announced that the project to extend natural gas to the development zone will be completed by 2027. This initiative is expected to lower production costs for factories, increase their competitiveness, and encourage further industrial investment.

Hassan also confirmed that the rehabilitation of the Basalt Basin in Mafraq will be completed by the end of 2026. The project will secure additional water resources, supporting the agricultural and industrial sectors while promoting sustainable water management.

He also chaired a cabinet meeting in the governorate, and discussed Mafraq’s development vision with elected councils; to unify priorities, allocate resources effectively, and ensure efficient execution of projects.

In the healthcare sector, the prime minister announced the launch of renovation works at Badia Hospital. Additionally, a tender will be issued this year for the construction of a new emergency and trauma unit and other departments at Mafraq Government Hospital, along with several other healthcare initiatives.

Hassan highlighted key initiatives to support the agricultural sector, including expanding agro-industrial factories, strengthening cooperative associations, increasing training and capacity-building programs, and allocating land for youth and retirees with financing options.

During the Cabinet session, Hassan announced a government decision to regulate unlicensed water wells in Mafraq and across Jordan. The plan includes issuing permits for wells currently used exclusively for agriculture, based on clear criteria that will be announced by the Ministry of Water soon.

The prime minister also announced that the government will approve 10 megawatts of solar energy to power factories in the King Hussein Development Zone. The initiative is expected to reduce operational costs, enhance competitiveness, and attract more investment.

Hassan inaugurated several key projects in Mafraq, including:

• New municipal building with public service facilities, parking for hundreds of vehicles to ease congestion, and a future government service center.
• New conference and activity center at Al al-Bayt University, designed to support women’s entrepreneurship and business training.

Despite the challenges Mafraq has faced since 2011 due to the influx of Syrian refugees, the region remains a promising investment destination, with strong economic indicators in its development zone.

Hassan has previously announced that Cabinet meetings will be held in different governorates each month, alongside regular field visits.