Project description

Title: Supporting reconstruction in North-East Afghanistan
Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
Country: Afghanistan
Lead executing agency: COPEMECO
Overall term: 2007 to 2008

Context

Afghanistan’s physical and social infrastructure has been almost completely destroyed by nearly thirty years of war and civil war. To date the Afghan state has not been able to ensure the security and protection of its citizens, nor to adequately provide the most necessary basic services, for example in the areas of health and education. Many Afghans still suffer under conditions of extreme hardship. In order to guarantee peace and prevent radical forces from gaining renewed strength in Afghanistan, it is therefore a matter of the utmost urgency that a comprehensive development process is set in motion, which also reaches remote communities and villages.

Objective

In the north-eastern provinces of Kunduz, Takhar and Badakhstan, important foundations have been laid for social and economic stabilisation, and for sustainable regional development.

Approach

On behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), GTZ is supporting the destitute population of North-East Afghanistan through its programme of development-oriented emergency and transitional aid. Starting at the interface between humanitarian aid and long-term development cooperation, this creates the conditions for sustainable development processes.

In key districts, so-called backbone projects are implemented first. These involve labour-intensive infrastructure and livelihood measures, temporarily creating income for the local population and collectively sending a very positive signal. In addition, communities in key districts can submit proposals for urgently needed projects, through the District Development Fund. Responsibility for implementation lies with the communities themselves, with GTZ providing support. A Province Development Fund has been established along the same lines, in order to reach the remaining, sometimes remote districts. Disbursements are made on a transparent and participatory basis, by a committee made up equally of Afghan and German members.

The projects extend from rehabilitating important basic and productive infrastructure, to reconstructing educational institutions and health centres, and training and capacity development measures.

Communities, represented by Community Development Councils, play the central role in the planning and implementation of their projects. A significant overall impact  is achieved through the linkage between the positive and highly visible effects of the backbone projects with the opportunities offered to Afghan communities to become involved in the development process, by means of the development fund.

Results achieved so far

Ten large infrastructure projects have been implemented in a two-year period in the provinces of Kunduz, Takhar and Badakhstan. Important communications and supply channels have been repaired or newly developed. These core projects are being complemented by 431 highly diverse small projects, urgently needed and autonomously implemented by communities. Well over 2 million people have so far benefited from such initiatives. Income generated while implementing the projects has also provided urgently needed help to many individuals. Community members acquired important skills and knowledge in the process, which will also be of assistance in finding future employment. The economic, social and political situation has clearly improved as a result of the measures.

These visible improvements have led increasing numbers of communities to make use of the opportunities offered by the District and Province Development Funds. They are actively participating in the reconstruction of the region and the success of the implemented projects has reinforced their sense of responsibility as a link between the state and society. At the same time, popular acceptance of local government has increased. These are important prerequisites for long-term reconstruction and sustainable development in Afghanistan.