KABUL (SW) – The World Bank has announced a financial assistance package of 84 million dollars to Afghanistan, aimed at supporting livelihood projects and alternative livelihoods in the country.
This aid comes at a crucial time when Afghanistan is grappling with economic challenges and the need for sustainable development initiatives.
This contribution from the World Bank marks one of the few financial aids to Afghanistan in over two and a half years, with a focus on adapting employment and development projects. While most global aid efforts have been directed towards humanitarian assistance, particularly in food and health sectors, the World Bank’s investment in economic development is significant.
The Ministry of Economy of the Islamic Emirate welcomes the World Bank’s support and urges further collaboration to address the unemployment and poverty crises in Afghanistan.
Abdul Rahman Habibi, spokesperson for the ministry, stated, “The World Bank officials had previously assured the commencement of semi-completed development projects. Initiating these projects will create economic infrastructures that will positively impact our people’s economic situation.”
However, Abdul Nasir Rashtia, an economic expert, emphasizes the importance of aligning developmental projects and global assistance to tackle unemployment and poverty effectively. He argues, “These aids stimulate economic and developmental projects in the country, creating job opportunities and reducing poverty.”
Meanwhile, Soraya Daqiq, an active woman in the trade sector in Herat province, emphasizes the need for continued global assistance to support the growth of small women-owned businesses for job creation. “Collaboration for the continuity of our work is crucial because every time there is a change, our work suffers. We need cooperation to prevent the collapse of our work,” she says.
According to Salam Watandar’s findings, over 400 developmental and economic projects, mostly funded by the World Bank, remain partially completed following the resurgence of the Islamic Emirate in Afghanistan. As the country navigates through economic challenges, sustained international assistance and project alignment are essential for long-term development and stability.
