Community Resilience, Livelihood and Social Cohesion Initiatives in Afghanistan

The project aims to contribute to the development or achievement of peaceful, just, and inclusive societies in Afghanistan. In rural areas where livelihood depletion is high, primarily due to economic and environmental shocks, it is crucial to promote livelihoods and build resilience to shocks in five districts (Khoja Omari, Muqur, Kunduz, Baharak and Khoja Ghar) of three provinces (Ghazni, Kunduz and Takhar) in Afghanistan. In order to protect livelihoods and build resilience, this project intends to address complex social, economic and environmental issues that have a significant impact on the lives and livelihoods of poor and vulnerable Afghan people (Female 36,683, Male 33,861) directly and (Female 88,200, Male 92,925 and Child 133,875) indirectly. This action will focus on interventions that improve access to employment and income generating opportunities, finance or credit, and markets; increase the availability of climate smart agricultural practices, inputs and infrastructure; promote participation of disadvantaged groups in economic and social roles; and improve social cohesion among groups and communities. This action will support the formation and promotion of micro-finance schemes (500 saving and credit groups) that will improve the access to finance and promote the establishment or expansion of rural enterprises. Market oriented vocational skills and start-up support/grant (950 people Female 525, Male 330 and PwD 95) will also be prioritized to establish enterprises for employment and income generation. In addition, supporting 1250 smallholders' (Female 750, Male 500) production continues to remain crucial for enhancing livelihoods as agriculture continues to be the main source of income for people living in rural areas. Sustainable and climate resilient farming practices will also be promoted to make rural agriculture resilient to climate change. High value agricultural value chains will be targeted to support smallholders for production and income generation. on conflict management to improve social relations and cohesion in target rural areas.