36°38′8.81″N 44°53′14.6″E / 36.6357806°N 44.887389°E / 36.6357806; 44.887389 Choman (Kurdish: چۆمان, lit. 'Çoman', Arabic: جومان) is a city in the Erbil Governorate of the Kurdistan region in Iraq. It is the district capital of the Choman District

Choman چومەن
District
Country	Iraq
Region	Kurdistan Region
Governorate	Erbil
Population  (2024)
• Total	45,000

The economy of Choman is largely based on agriculture, with local farmers growing a variety of crops, including wheat and barley. The district also benefits from the cultivation of fruit trees and livestock farming. In recent years, tourism has been developing due to the area's natural attractions.

The population of Choman is primarily Kurdish, with a majority adhering to Sunni Islam. There are also smaller communities of Yezidis and Christians, contributing to the area's cultural diversity.

Choman is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including the picturesque Choman Valley and its proximity to the Bekhal Waterfall. The region is increasingly becoming a tourist destination, offering opportunities for hiking, nature exploration, and cultural experiences.

Choman has several schools providing education in Kurdish, Arabic, and English. The local education system focuses on promoting Kurdish culture and language while also encouraging academic achievement.

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Choman has a history that dates back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the area has been inhabited since the early days of human civilization. Historically, it has been part of various empires, including the Assyrian, Babylonian, and Ottoman empires. The region's strategic location made it a significant site for trade and cultural exchange.

20th Century and Kurdish Nationalism In the 20th century, Choman became a focal point for Kurdish nationalism. During the British mandate in Iraq (1920-1932), Kurds in the region began to organize politically, demanding greater autonomy and recognition of their rights. The area witnessed several uprisings against Iraqi central authority, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s as Kurdish leaders sought to establish an independent Kurdish state.

The district suffered greatly during the Anfal campaign (1986-1989), a genocidal campaign carried out by Saddam Hussein's regime against the Kurdish population. Choman and its surrounding areas were heavily bombarded, leading to mass displacement and loss of life. The campaign aimed to eradicate Kurdish identity and culture, resulting in the destruction of villages and forced relocation of residents.

Following the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, Choman, like the rest of the Kurdistan Region, began to experience a degree of autonomy. The Kurdish regional government established control over the area, allowing for the development of local governance and reconstruction efforts after years of conflict. This period saw a revival of Kurdish culture and identity, with initiatives aimed at promoting the Kurdish language and history.

In recent years, Choman has focused on rebuilding its infrastructure and promoting tourism, capitalizing on its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The government has invested in education and public services, aiming to improve the quality of life for residents. Cultural festivals celebrating Kurdish traditions are now common, fostering a sense of pride and community among the population.

The city is located 150 kilometres (93 mi) northeast of the city of Erbil. The city of Choman is inhabited by Kurds.

• Panoramio: Choman photo