Mes Aynak Work Commences with Inauguration Ceremony
Practical work on the Mes Aynak Copper mine project in Logar was inaugurated today (Wednesday, July 24) with the presence of officials from the de facto government and China.
Hedayatullah Badri, acting Minister of Mines and Petroleum, said at the ceremony that the contracting company is obligated to carry out its work based on the contract.
Badri said: “Mes Aynak Copper is the largest copper mine in the country and the second largest in the world. The contract for this mine was signed with MCC in 2008 during the previous government, but practical work did not begin due to various issues.”
Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, The Taliban’s deputy prime minister for economic affairs, said the Mes Aynak Copper project is an important project for the country.
The Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs said: “In terms of security, we assure those residing in Afghanistan and every investor investing in Afghanistan.”
Zhao Xing, the Chinese ambassador in Kabul, said at the ceremony that economic relations between Kabul and Beijing are expanding. According to him, China is working in coordination with the United Nations and several other countries for Afghanistan’s stability and progress.
Xing added that trade worth one billion dollars was conducted between Afghanistan and China last year.
Zhao Xing said: “The start of the Mes Aynak Copper Road construction is very important in implementing future plans for this project and facilitates the excavation route, which is a significant step in the Mes Aynak Copper Project.”
Meanwhile, Khairullah Khairkhwa, the acting Minister of Information and Culture, emphasized the importance of protecting ancient artifacts during the excavation of this mine.
Khairullah Khairkhwa said: “The de facto government has made tireless efforts in this regard to both protect historical artifacts and utilize our mines for the benefit of the people.”
China Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Li Qun said at the ceremony: “The Mes Aynak Copper area has a historical background and holds special value in tourism, handicrafts, cultural development, and the Silk Road. I appreciate the Afghan government for protecting historical monuments and striving to preserve the artifacts of Mes Aynak at the governmental and global levels. I believe that cultural cooperation between Afghanistan and China can enhance global culture and strengthen relations between the two countries.”
Herat Exports Recycled Fibers to Germany for First Time
Recycled fibers from plastic waste produced in the industrial park of Herat have been exported to Germany for the first time.
It is planned that 750 tons of these fibers will be exported to Germany over several months.
These fibers produced in the Herat industrial park are exported to Germany after quality assessment and testing.
Abdulrahman Mutmain, a production factory official, said: “For the first time, we have contracted to export approximately 750 tons of fibers from the Mumtaz Jahan company in the Herat industrial park to Germany. The products we produce are from plastic beverage and mineral water bottles. The value of each 25-ton shipment is up to twenty-one thousand dollars.”
Previously, polyester fibers from this factory have also been exported to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
The Herat Chamber of Mines and Industries says that due to the improvement in the quality of the industrial park’s products, the export of domestic products to various countries has increased.
Hamidullah Khadem, head of the Herat Chamber of Industries and Mines, said: “Today we are witnessing the export of a shipment of fibers abroad. This shipment is a trial to ensure it meets the foreign market’s preference, and in the future, exports will be carried out on a larger scale.”
Polyester fibers are obtained from plastic waste; after being collected from cities, the waste is brought to the factory for fiber production.
Abdul Rahim Mohammadi, an employee of a production factory, said: “If there were more of these factories in the country, many young people would be employed. This work prevents us from having to go abroad, where we face risks, such as drowning in the seas or being killed along the way.”
Hussein Rahimi, an employee of a production factory, said: “I am very happy to be working in my own country, and there is no need for me to migrate to other countries.”
In addition to fibers, non-alcoholic beverages, medical and hygiene products, marble, aluminum utensils, yarn, food items, and some other industrial park products are also exported to several countries.
According to statistics from the Herat Chamber of Commerce and Investment, in the past three months, fifteen thousand tons of domestic products valued at over 43 million dollars have been exported from Herat to other countries.
According to officials of this chamber, exports from Herat have increased by more than fifty percent this year compared to last year.
Bamiyan Hosts Women Entrepreneur and Artisan Exhibition
Artisans, traders, and female entrepreneurs from various provinces of the country displayed their local products at an exhibition near the Buddha statues in Bamiyan.
In this exhibition, a variety of handicrafts, dairy products, artworks, and other local products were showcased in over 180 booths for public viewing.
Abdullah Sarhadi, the governor of Taliban for Bamyan, said, “Bamyan is at the service of artisans, traders, and investors to help grow the industry, develop it, and enable exports to other countries.”
Mohammad Hafiz Noorzai, head of industry and commerce in Bamiyan, stated: “Companies from the center and neighboring provinces have come, taken booths, and participated. Additionally, the artisans, traders, and investors who are in Bamiyan have also participated.”
Khyber Hiwadmal, the organizer, also said: “In this exhibition, we have provided nearly 180 booths to people, with about 80 percent of them being women.”
Some participants consider the organization of such exhibitions beneficial for the growth of their economic activities and urge the officials in the interim government to address their other needs as well.
Abdul Jabbar Ebadi, an artisan, said: “Our only problem at the moment is that we do not have electricity, and we currently cannot set up factories in Bamiyan. We also cannot dye our carpets here, and washing them requires a lot of electricity.”
Sharifa Ahmadi, an entrepreneur, told TOLOnews: “Holding such exhibitions brings foreign buyers, and we can sell our products more to foreigners.”
This exhibition, aimed at supporting local products, will continue for five more days in Bamiyan.
According to the organizers, such exhibitions are planned to be held in some provinces of the country and abroad in the future.
International Exhibition in China Boosts Kabul-Beijing Trade Relations
Several participants at the opening day of the 28th International Exhibition in China have stated that this exhibition plays a significant role in the development of commercial relations between Kabul and Beijing.
Afghan businessmen showed their products in 41 booths at the exhibition and expressed satisfaction with their participation in such disasters.
Mahboobullah Mohammadi, a participant from Afghanistan, said, “This exhibition itself will promote trade, expand relationships, and enhance our country’s economic activities in the Chinese market.”
Another participant, Mohammad Hanif, said, “We have many opportunities to export to China, increasing the number of our traders. Moreover, this is the largest exhibition held annually in China, attracting participants from various countries.”
China is one of the world’s leading economies. Developing and expanding economic relations with Beijing can have a positive impact on our country’s economy.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has reported that in the first six months of the current year, trade worth $306 million has taken place between Kabul and Beijing, with Afghanistan’s exports amounting to $7 million.
Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, said, “Most of our trade items to China include pine nuts, apricots, and precious and semi-precious stones. Imported items include cotton textiles, solar panels, electronic devices, and various types of mobile phones.”
Since the return of the de facto government to power in the country, China has continued its relations with Afghanistan, investing about $1 billion in the country’s mining sector during this period.
National Labor Conference on Poverty, Unemployment Starts in Kabul
The National Labor Conference, attended by officials of the de facto government, the private sector, global organizations, and university professors, began today (Tuesday, July 23) in Kabul.
Organized by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, the conference aims to combat poverty and unemployment while creating job opportunities nationwide.
Several acting ministers also presented their plans for creating job opportunities and enhancing coordination between government agencies and domestic and international organizations at the conference.
Abdul Manan Omari, acting Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, stated that currently, more than one million people are employed within the Taliban’s administration.
“Despite the cruel financial restrictions imposed on Afghanistan, the de facto government of Afghanistan considers combating unemployment one of its primary responsibilities,” said Abdul Manan Omari.
“To further support the MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) the ILO has also established partnerships with the UN agencies, funds and programs including UNDP, UN Women, and UNHCR. The continued UN support to the MSMEs has created more than one million jobs in the last two years, more than 20,000 received technical or financial support in 2023 that helped them to create more jobs,” said Ramin Behzad, a representative of the International Labor Organization in Kabul.
Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, the political deputy Prime Minister of Taliban, reiterated that the Taliban policy is economy-centered and that they pursue this policy by expanding relations with neighboring, regional, and global countries.
He said: “Despite economic restrictions and the freezing of Afghanistan’s foreign assets, the De facto government has continuously sought solutions to unemployment since its victory.”
Noorul Haq Anwar, Director General of Administrative Affairs, said at the conference: “Sometimes governments do things that are superficial and not based on reality, just to deceive the people; however, the de facto government steps so far have been genuine.”
Acting ministers of Foreign Affairs, Economy, Higher Education, Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, Industry and Commerce, Mines and Petroleum, as well as the Chamber of Commerce and Investment, emphasized the continuation of efforts to reduce poverty and unemployment and create job opportunities in the country.
Nooruddin Azizi, acting Minister of Industry and Commerce, stressed that they have a five-year plan to create job opportunities for more than 500,000 people in the country.
The Acting Minister of Industry and Commerce said about this plan: “If the mentioned programs are implemented, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, in cooperation with the private sector, will provide employment opportunities for more than 500,000 compatriots in the next five years.”
Hedayatullah Badri, acting Minister of Mines and Petroleum, said: “Currently, the mining sector provides direct and indirect job opportunities for forty thousand people, and we are making final efforts to create investment opportunities for domestic and foreign investors.”
The National Labor Conference will continue for two days, during which the Emirate’s administration, the private sector, international organizations, and university professors will examine the causes of unemployment and explore practical solutions to reduce poverty and create job opportunities.
Salang Highway Alternative Route Launched to Prevent Traffic Halts
The Ministry of Public Works announced the creation of an alternative route for the Salang Highway.
Mohammad Esa Saani, the acting head of the ministry, stated at the inauguration program of the newly constructed bypass in Salang that vehicle movement will not be halted this year, and drivers can use this route in both South and North Salang.
“We have constructed two alternative routes for Salang: one in North Salang and another in South Salang. This year, God willing, vehicles will not be stopped at any time. Small cars, as well as Mazda-type vehicles and other types of vehicles, can pass through it,” said Mohammad Esa Saani.
The Ministry of Public Works recently announced the resumption of reconstruction work on the remaining sections of the Salang Highway.
Meanwhile, some drivers on the Kabul-Northern provinces route have said that the construction of an alternative route on the Salang Highway is better compared to the Khawak-Panjshir route.
Drivers on this highway urge officials to expedite the reconstruction of the main Salang route.
Shams-ur-Rahman Safi, one of the drivers, said: “The shorter route has made it much easier because people faced many problems on the Panjshir route. Vehicles would overturn, and there were many casualties.”
Ajmal Ahmadzai, another driver, said: “Efforts should be made to keep Salang open. It’s true that problems are being solved now, but many people still face difficulties because the route is one-way.”
According to the schedule planned by the Ministry of Public Works, small passenger vehicles can use the bypass route in both directions during the day, and freight and passenger vehicles can travel on the Salang routes at night on a rotational basis.
Sakhi Ahmad Paiman, the first deputy of the Afghanistan Chamber of Industries and Mines, told TOLOnews: “In the past, there was no such alternative route for repairing Salang. The current alternative route is effective for transporting our commercial and transit goods. We hope the reconstruction process proceeds quickly.”
Khanjan Alokozay, a member of the leadership board of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment, saying: “Another tunnel should be arranged in Salang itself, serving both directions, and it should not be too difficult to traverse because the weather is cold there, and we currently lack facilities.”
The reconstruction of the Salang Highway was initiated by the Ministry of Public Works in 1402 (2023). This year, the paving inside the tunnel, the sixteenth gallery, and the third section of this highway, which covers five kilometers, were completed.
Afghan Farmers Protest Pakistani Tariffs
On Monday, several farmers in Kabul held a protest, complaining about the lack of markets for their produce and the high tariffs imposed by Pakistan on fresh fruits and vegetables from Afghanistan.
The farmers at this gathering said that if the government does not pay attention to marketing their products, they will be forced to stop their work.
They called on officials in the interim government to take immediate steps to address this challenge.
Zulfiqar Qara Mazlumyar, one of the farmers, said: “The cost incurred by each farmer for one seer (7 kg) of cucumber is 55 to 60 afghani, but our sales price is 35 afghani, which is driving us all to despair.”
Gul Hassan, a vegetable trader, said: “Our elders met with officials from the Ministry of Agriculture to reduce taxes, and they said they would work on it, but it’s been about 15 days and there has been no news.”
On the other hand, some workers at cucumber farms in Kabul are concerned about the possible shutdown of these greenhouses. They said that due to the lack of a market, the owners of the greenhouses are facing many challenges and the likelihood of these greenhouses stopping operations is high.
Mohammad Nader, a worker, told TOLOnews: “We are very happy to have work opportunities here instead of going abroad, but recently the situation for farmers has not been good.”
Mohammad Ali, another worker, said: “The government or whoever it is should help the farmers because if they are supported, they will help us.”
Although the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has not commented on the increase in customs tariffs, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock has pledged support for farmers, saying it will seek good markets for their products.
Misbahuddin Mustaeen, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, told TOLOnews: “The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock organizes exhibitions in the capital and provinces to market and sell agricultural products. Additionally, it facilitates the participation of Afghan investors in domestic and international exhibitions to ensure our domestic products reach both domestic and international markets.”
The lack of a suitable market and the emergence of new challenges during the fruit and vegetable season in Afghanistan have continuously drawn criticism from traders and farmers.
Foreign Investors Show Strong Interest in Afghanistan's Mining Sector
The Ministry of Mines and Petroleum reported the interest of Turkish and Kyrgyz investors in the mining sector of Afghanistan.
The spokesperson for the ministry said that investors from these countries have expressed their desire to invest in gold, marble, onyx, antimony, and oil during separate meetings with the acting minister.
The spokesman for the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum, Homayoun Afghan, said: “They have shown interest in investing in Afghanistan’s mines, especially in marble, oil, gas, and other minerals.”
Meanwhile, the Chamber of Industries and Mines also emphasized the importance of standardized extraction and the establishment of processing factories in the country.
Sakhi Ahmad Payman, the First Deputy of the Chamber of Industries and Mines, said: “We will achieve self-sufficiency and sustainable employment in the mining sector only when Afghanistan’s mines are legal and based on a mechanism extracted and processed within the country. Factories and industries related to mining that can process should be supported so that all stages are done within Afghanistan.”
Some economic experts also consider foreign investment in Afghanistan’s various sectors, especially mining, to be influential in the country’s economic growth.
“Afghanistan’s underground reserves have a good reputation in the world. It is very good to take advantage of this opportunity and invite foreign investors to the country to invest in this sector,” said Abdul Ghafar Nezami, an economic expert.
After the return of the Talibanin Afghanistan, countries including Qatar, China, Turkey, Iran, Germany, the United Kingdom, India, and Turkmenistan have shown interest in Afghanistan’s mining sector, and some of these countries have invested in Afghanistan.
Ghori Cement Factory Boosts Production, Plans New Plant
The production of Ghori Cement Factory in Baghlan province has increased compared to last year.
According to officials, Ghori Cement production was 180,000 tons last year, but this year it will increase to 200,000 tons.
The technical deputy of this factory said that with the increase in production, the demand has also increased.
Sarbaz Banuzai, the technical deputy of Ghori Cement Factory, said: “In total, last year’s production was 180,000 tons and this year we plan for 200,000 tons. God willing, our production will exceed this plan.”
The technical deputy of this factory added in another part of his speech that the National Development Company plans to establish another new cement production plant alongside this factory, which will have a production capacity of 4,000 tons in 24 hours.
Sarbaz Banuzai said: “Fortunately, the National Development Company has advanced most of the technical works. The dry system device, which will be installed next to the Ghori Cement Factory, will have a daily production of up to 4,000 tons, and its expenses will be covered by the budget of the National Development Company.”
Meanwhile, some workers in this factory called for the creation of more production factories to reduce the country’s unemployment rate.
“We request the De facto government to take more actions in the reconstruction of such factories so that our unemployed youth can find jobs,” said Malekyar Malikzada, a worker at Ghori Cement Factory.
“Since the Talibancame, the level of production has increased. Thanks to God, the kilns are operational. If the construction of such factories increases, most of the youth will find jobs,” said Sher Mohammad, another worker.
According to information, the first Ghori Cement Factory, with a production capacity of 400 tons of cement per day, started its operation in 1341 (solar calendar) with the cooperation and assembly of specialists from then Czechoslovakia, and since then, its quality cement has had a regional reputation.
MOU for 3 Solar Power Generation Projects Signed
Three memoranda of understanding for three solar power generation projects worth $25 million was signed on Thursday, July 18, with a private company in Kabul.
The acting Minister of Energy and Water, Abdul Latif Mansour, said that since the Talibantook power in the country, this ministry has signed contracts for the production of 400 megawatts of electricity from domestic sources with local investors.
This MOUs includes three projects with a production capacity of 8 megawatts of solar power, which are set to be implemented in the provinces of Uruzgan, Paktika, and Farah. It is said that with the completion of these three projects, more than 5,000 families will benefit from electricity.
At the contract signing event, Abdul Latif Mansour said: “We have 300 megawatts of electricity produced from the existing networks that are active in Afghanistan. However, since the arrival of the Islamic Emirate, we are ready for contracts close to 400 megawatts of electricity. Today, an agreement for three projects worth $25 million is being signed.”
Meanwhile, the deputy of the contracting company for these three projects has committed to implementing the signed projects on time and has called on domestic and foreign investors to make efforts in electricity production in Afghanistan.
The deputy of the contracting company, Noorullah, said: “If there is electricity, people can access any kind of technology, and we started the work with the cooperation of elders, and we will complete it in a good manner, as the elders have trusted us.”
In this program, Abdul Latif Mansour also announced the start of a project to produce 100 megawatts of solar power aimed at reducing power outages in Kabul in the near future.
Afghanistan's Carpet, Rug Exports Exceed Nine Million Dollars in Six Months
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce states that in the first six months of this year, carpets and rugs worth more than nine million dollars have been exported abroad.
According to Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, spokesperson of this ministry, most of the carpets were exported to Austria, India, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Australia, Italy, China, and Turkey.
Jawad added that the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has provided the necessary facilities for traders to export carpets abroad.
The spokesperson of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce said, “In the first six months of 2024, over 2.4 million kilograms of carpets worth 8.7 million dollars were exported to Austria, Pakistan, India, Uzbekistan, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Turkey, China, and other countries.”
Khanjan Alokozai, a member of the board of directors of the Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said, “Carpet is one of our main export items, and besides that, it provides job opportunities for both men and women.”
Meanwhile, some carpet sellers say that organizing exhibitions inside and outside the country will increase carpet sales and exports.
Mustafa Sakhi Zada, a carpet seller, said, “Unfortunately, our sales inside the country are less than before, and we request the current government officials to provide more facilities so that our sales increase.”
Firoz Afqar, another carpet seller, said, “In order to transfer quality carpets outside Afghanistan and to showcase and introduce the authentic Afghan culture, which is carpet weaving, to the world, it is necessary to open direct and fast air corridors.”
Previously, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) stated that with the support of this organization, the Afghan carpet sector has increased its processing capacity to 500,000 square meters per year.
Technical Work on Kabul-Panjshir River Project Completed
The Ministry of Water and Energy said that the technical work for the project to transfer Panjshir River water to Kabul has been completed.
A spokesperson for the ministry told TOLOnews that this project will cost nearly $160 million and that practical work will begin after approval from the leadership of the Islamic Emirate.
The spokesperson for the Ministry of Water and Energy, Matiullah Abid, said: “The technical work on the Kabul-Panjshir water project has been completed in the Ministry of Water and Energy. This project is ready for implementation and has been submitted to the leadership.”
Kabul, with an estimated population of over six million people, has faced a shortage of drinking water in recent years due to droughts.
Residents of Kabul’s 5th district say they spend all day trying to obtain drinking water, and if this issue is not addressed, they will be forced to leave their homes.
A Kabul resident, Mohammad Arif, said: “We have been struggling with water problems for a long time. This tap is private, and one cubic meter of water costs us 50 afghani. We receive water once every three to four days.”
Another Kabul resident, Anar Gul, said: “Homes in our area are becoming vacant because of the water shortage, and new residents are not moving in. If this situation continues, these homes might become completely empty, and people will leave.”
They say that despite submitting applications to the relevant authorities for drilling deep wells in their areas, officials have not given this issue special attention.
A Kabul resident, Ali Marjan Bahir, said: “I have gone to the water supply office forty times and submitted applications, but there has been no result so far.”
Water management expert Nematullah Sardar Zada said: “Two parts of water are taken from Shahtoot Dam. One part is for agricultural water, which benefits surface water, and the second part is groundwater, for which a dam is built, benefiting groundwater.”
Some experts believe that climate changes around the world have harmed Afghanistan more than other countries, and in recent years, Afghanistan has witnessed unprecedented water shortages, devastating floods, and droughts.
227 Development Projects Included in Afghanistan’s 1403 Budget
The Ministry of Economy has announced the inclusion of 227 development projects in the fiscal year 1403 budget.
According to Abdul Rahman Habib, the ministry’s spokesperson, 72 of these projects are new, while the remaining ones are carried over from previous years, as reported to TOLOnews.
“Of the total 227 projects, 72 are new and 155 are ongoing projects, with a significant portion allocated to the infrastructure sector. Specifically, there are 88 construction projects, 50 service projects, 33 infrastructure projects, 38 technical projects, and 18 development projects funded by this year’s budget,” Abdul Rahman Habib said.
The Chamber of Industries and Mines emphasizes the need for private sector cooperation with the Taliban to initiate large-scale economic projects in the country.
Sakhi Ahmad Paiman, the first deputy of the Chamber of Industries and Mines, stated: “The people of Afghanistan and the private sector request the World Bank and the Asian Bank to fund their intended expenditures through infrastructure projects so that Afghanistan’s economy can stand on its feet.”
Some economic experts believe that the initiation and implementation of infrastructure and development projects are crucial for economic growth and job creation in the country.
Abdul Ghafar Nezami, an economic expert, said: “These projects can positively impact job creation and increase income, which will have a beneficial effect on Afghanistan’s economy.”
Shakir Yaqoobi, another economist, stated: “In Afghanistan, projects funded by international allies should commence promptly. It is better to resume incomplete projects before Afghanistan faces economic challenges and a rising poverty rate.”
Since the Taliban regained power in the country, many development projects have been funded by internal revenue.
Girls Call for Equal Access to Education Following Kankor Exam Results
A day after the announcement of the 1403 Kankor results, some female students have told TOLOnews that they want to participate in the Kankor exam just like boys.
These girls have once again asked the Taliban not to deprive them of education.
Fatima, who graduated from school three years ago, spoke to TOLOnews about her challenges and concerns: “Every year we hope that universities will reopen for girls, and we review our books. We hope for the day when we can attend universities like boys.”
Fatima continued to ask the interim government: “The Taliban should allow us too because women make up half of society and their rights should not be trampled.”
Tamanna, another student, said: “When the Taliban came, they first closed the doors of schools while universities were open. We hoped they would allow universities and eventually open schools this year or next; but over time, they also closed universities.”
At the same time, some women’s rights activists emphasized the importance of girls’ right to education in Afghanistan.
Tafsir Siyahposh, a women’s rights activist, told TOLOnews: “We do not know what the Taliban wants from us and how long this will continue. We hope they consider the demands of women, especially regarding the right to education. Today, the doors of schools and universities should be opened and the demands of girls considered.”
This comes as the results of the 1403 Kankor exam were announced yesterday (Sunday) by the National Examination Committee.
Atal Khan Rahimzoy, Syed Hamed Hashemi, and Shafiqullah Nizami were the top three scorers in this year’s Kankor exam.
Afghans Want Women's Inclusion in Intl Decision-Making Forums
The latest quarterly survey conducted between 17 and 29 April by UN Afghanistan indicated that the consulted Afghan women and men feel that the international community should put in place formal mechanisms to ensure women’s inclusion in international decision-making forums which discuss the future of Afghanistan.
The survey, which covered 888 people across 33 provinces (not Uruzgan) of Afghanistan is conducted by UNAMA, UN Women and IOM.
In the survey, participants have also been asked about their engagement with the local authorities on issues important to them indicating that 80 percent of the female participants have not engaged at least once in the first quarter, while men’s meetings with the authorities was three times more than women.
According to the survey’s findings, men’s access to both legal and illegal dispute resolution mechanisms was also higher than those of women.
“Women indicated that they are excluded from influencing their lives at all points of decision-making – unable to influence the rules imposed upon them, nor hold others to account for violations or enforce those few rights granted by the DFA,” the report reads.
The women consulted in the survey have asked the local authorities to prioritize inclusive community engagement in local decision-making processes and service delivery design.
They have also asked the international community to facilitate ways for women to talk directly with government officials.
Families of Uruzgan Victims Demand Justice for Australian Attacks
The families of civilians killed in airstrikes and nighttime operations by Australian forces in Uruzgan are seeking justice and compensation.
They are calling on human rights organizations and international courts to impartially investigate these war crimes and punish the perpetrators.
Sediqullah, a 38-year-old resident of the Kakarak area, located 10 kilometers south of Tarinkot, the capital of Uruzgan, said that in 2009, 18 members of his family, including women and children, were killed in nighttime operations by Australian forces.
Sediqullah said: “I am the only one left in the family. One of my brothers, my father, my uncles, and my aunt were martyred. Women and children were also wounded and martyred.”
Not only Sediqullah’s family but hundreds of other families in the center and districts of this province also mourned during the presence of foreign forces.
Payendi, a 65-year-old resident of Saray village in Chora district, Uruzgan, said that in 2007, four of his sons and two daughters were killed in an airstrike by Australian forces.
“We were sitting inside the house when they attacked. They bombed us. They shot everyone,” Payendi said.
Another family member of the victims, Mohammad Ikhlas, said: “Everyone was buried under the ground. All the family members were buried one by one.”
Khushal, another family member of the victims, said: “It was a great horror. It was impossible to tell where the bullets were coming from. It was very difficult.”
Local officials in Uruzgan also said that many civilians in the center and districts of this province were targeted during the presence of Australian forces.
Agha Wali Inaam, a spokesperson for the governor of Uruzgan, said: “Our demand is not limited to compensation. They must be brought to international courts. Any verdict issued by the court must be executed.”
According to local officials in Uruzgan, Australian forces carried out their largest attack in 2009 in the Kakarak area, near the city of Tarinkot, resulting in 60 deaths and 135 injuries.
Natural disasters Have Caused Job Losses in Afghanistan
Ramin Behzad, the head of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Afghanistan, said in an exclusive interview with TOLOnews that the current Afghan job market is facing numerous challenges.
Behzad added in this interview said that political changes, reduced investments, economic shrinkage, droughts, floods, and earthquakes have led to increased unemployment in Afghanistan.
He also mentioned that certain programs have been implemented to create job opportunities for Afghan citizens, especially women.
The head of the International Labour Organization said: “We had natural disasters, including floods and earthquakes in the west of the country last year, and based on our estimates, 22,000 to 23,000 jobs were lost in the west of the country.”
Behzad added that a survey conducted by their organization in 2020 and published in 2021 showed that about 6 million people in Afghanistan had jobs, with around 1.1 million of them being women.
According to Behzad, a survey conducted after the political changes of 2021 indicated that around 500,000 to 900,000 people in Afghanistan lost their jobs.
He added: “The labor force statistics are prepared according to international standards, and fortunately, it was so, and based on these statistics, the employed population in Afghanistan at that time was six million people.”
In this interview, Ramin Behzad also stressed that the International Labour Organization has implemented some projects in Afghanistan to create job opportunities for the country’s citizens.
He added: “We have a program in the northern part of the country to support small and medium enterprises over the past three years, which has created or improved over 13,000 jobs.”
The International Labour Organization officially began its activities in Afghanistan in 2003.
Women Remain Integral Part of UN Operations
The UN Secretary General’s special representative and head of UNAMA Roza Otunbayeva said that women have remained an integral part of whatever the UN does.
Speaking at the “Islamic Finance Week” launched by UNDP Afghanistan, the UNAMA head reiterated that they were promoting meaningful participation of women in all aspects of the financial and economic sectors.
“Islamic finance is a critical component for economic growth as Afghanistan has decided to use only Islamic finance in its economic, financial frameworks. Islamic finance principles are rooted in ethical and equitable financial practices,” UNDP Afghanistan quoted the UN envoy as saying.
Islamic Finance Week began yesterday (July 22) with participation from other UN agencies, international institutions, embassies and the private sector of Afghanistan.
On their account on X, UNDP Afghanistan said that they have launched ‘Afghanistan Access to Finance’ in 2024, which aims at supporting Islamic banking and women’s access to finance.
The project comes as Afghanistan is still dealing with banking sanctions and the frozen assets which are said to have hindered the development projects in the country.
The Taliban has repeatedly asked for the release of the assets and lifting the sanctions.
Sanctions Affect Afghanistan’s Global Relations
The Administrative Deputy of the Prime Minister’s Office, in a meeting with the head of UNAMA, called for the transfer of Afghanistan’s seat at the UN to the interim government, the lifting of sanctions, and the removal of Taliban officials’ names from the blacklist.
In a statement from the Arg, Abdul Salam Hanafi was quoted as saying that imposing restrictions on Afghanistan’s relations with other countries has a negative impact.
The statement said: “We believe that these restrictions are not only unhelpful but also negatively impact Afghanistan’s relations with other countries. Therefore, it is necessary to address the problems and challenges with joint efforts and flexibility.”
Abdul Salam Hanafi, in his meeting with Roza Otunbayeva, expressed gratitude for the United Nations’ assistance to the people of Afghanistan and UNAMA’s efforts to improve Afghanistan’s relations with other countries.
The statement added: “The leadership of the Taliban of Afghanistan is striving with all its might for economic growth, creating job opportunities for young people, and implementing development projects in various regions. We request the United Nations and other aid agencies to cooperate in the fields of health, education, agriculture, and other sectors.”
Arg also quoted Roza Otunbayeva, the head of UNAMA, as saying that the United Nations wants to continue its assistance to the people of Afghanistan and expects the leadership of the Taliban of Afghanistan to cooperate in delivering this aid to those in need.
According to the statement, Otunbayeva, referring to the implementation of the agreements from the third Doha meeting, added that the United Nations has many programs regarding combating climate change, clearing lands of unexploded mines, environmental protection, and other areas, which require comprehensive cooperation from the Taliban for their implementation.
Over 200 Schools in Faryab Require Urgent Reconstruction
More than 200 schools in Faryab, damaged by past wars and recent natural disasters, need reconstruction.
Residents of Faryab say that the destruction of these schools has made the educational process difficult for students. Currently, students are studying in open spaces and rented houses.
They are calling on the Taliban and aid organizations to provide not only basic reconstruction but also desks, chairs, and safe drinking water.
Najibullah, a religious scholar, said: “Children are continuing their education in mosque corners, rooms, and under trees because there are no buildings. We urgently need the schools to be repaired.”
Abdul Jamil, a resident of Faryab, said: “The war destroyed the schools, and our children are studying in some rented buildings, which is very difficult.”
Khudai Berdi, another resident of Faryab, said: “They are destroyed, dilapidated, with no desks or chairs. The children of the nation are studying on bare ground with no proper place or drinking water. The children are in a lot of trouble.”
Mohammad Tahir Jawad, the Director of Education for Faryab, has called on the central government, aid organizations, traders, and philanthropists to assist in the reconstruction of these schools.
The Director of Education for Faryab added: “Our 200 schools in Faryab have been damaged by past wars and natural disasters and need repairs. One example is the central high school of Dawlatabad district where we are currently located.”
Meanwhile, besides schools, some other public facilities in various provinces of the country have also been destroyed by past wars and recent natural disasters, requiring reconstruction and renovation.
Ministry Blocks 150 Books for Contradicting Religious Teachings
The Ministry of Information and Culture said that in the past two years it has prevented the publication of 150 books that were contrary to religious teachings.
The Publications and Bayhaqi Books section of this ministry added that the publication of these books was prevented in Kabul and various provinces.
Abdul Aleem Zanwak Muftizadeh, head of Publications and Bayhaqi Books at the Ministry of Information and Culture, said: “Books that are published must comply with the policy of a system and should not be against our fundamental and cultural values. Such books, totaling 150, were either not suitable for publication or were influenced by foreign factors, especially those related to the American occupation.”
Salahuddin, a bookseller, said: “Books that are against the religion of Islam or come from countries like Iran and Pakistan, we are forced to sell them because there is a demand in Kabul.”
Nasir Ahmad Amiri, a resident of Kabul, said: “On one hand, it is good that no one has the right to promote another religion, and on the other hand, it is good to allow it so that young people can obtain the information they need about other religions.”
Baz Mohammad Shir Zai, a resident of Kabul, said: “In this matter, the views of our young people should be considered because they want to study in various fields, even if it is non-Islamic.”
Previously, the Ministry of Information and Culture announced the collection of books contrary to religious teachings in the capital.
Ras-ul-Mulk in Wakhan, Badakhshan Deteriorating
Residents of Wakhan district in Badakhshan said that the tomb of Ras-ul-Mulk, one of the historical monuments of this province, is in danger of destruction.
According to them, this issue has been raised with the authorities several times, but no action has been taken so far.
The tomb of Ras-ul-Mulk, which is one of the historical monuments, has a history of more than 300 years.
“According to the elders, this soil came from Qataghan land and is not from this place. There are two tombs here, one of which has been destroyed and the other is also in a state of disrepair. We have proposed this several times, but the Directorate of Information and Culture and the related institutions have not paid attention to it so far,” said Wali Jan, a resident of Wakhan district in Badakhshan.
“Two to three periods of the tomb have been destroyed and the Directorate of Information and Culture must pay serious attention to this matter,” said Baz Mohammad, a resident of Wakhan district in Badakhshan.
The Directorate of Information and Culture of Badakhshan said that they have raised this issue with the Ministry of Information and Culture.
According to this Directorate, about 38 historical monuments and archaeological sites of this province are registered with the Ministry of Information and Culture, and among them, five historical monuments were rebuilt during the previous government.
Mohammad Arif Farooqi, the Director of Culture and Art of the Directorate of Information and Culture of Badakhshan, said: “300 years have passed since the construction of the tomb of Ras-ul-Mulk, which has been destroyed due to natural events. Insha’Allah, we had a trip along this route a while ago, and we reviewed the historical monuments, and according to a schedule, we will share them with the Ministry of Information and Culture.”
According to some historical narratives, Ras-ul-Mulk, one of the Wakhan kings, was killed about 300 years ago along with 8 of his companions during the infidel attacks on their areas, and now his burial place is considered one of the historical monuments in the country.
Ministry of Information and Culture Stresses Protecting Historic Monuments
Khairullah Khairkhwa, the acting Minister of Information and Culture, in a meeting with the head of the cultural section of the Aga Khan Foundation, emphasized the protection of the country’s historical monuments.
Khairkhwa also regards the country’s historical monuments as representatives of its ancient history, authentic culture, and national identity.
In this meeting, Ajmal Maiwandi the head of the cultural section of the Aga Khan Foundation assured ongoing work on several restoration projects of historical sites in various provinces of the country.
Khobaib Ghafran, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Information and Culture, said: “Discussions on ongoing projects include the restoration of the Herat Grand Mosque, the shrine of Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, which was damaged by a recent earthquake in that province, as well as the restoration of the Babaji Mosque in Ghazni province and the construction of an archaeological park in Bala Hissar, Kabul.”
Archaeologists and cultural experts consider the role of institutions in restoring the country’s historical sites to be beneficial.
Kitab Khan Faizi, head of the Kushani International Research Center, said: “The Aga Khan Foundation and Hajj Koh, a newly established institution, are very effectively advancing very essential work.”
Mohammad Anwar Faiz, a scientific member of the Archaeological Research Center of the Academy of Sciences, said: “Institutions play a very essential role.”
Previously, the Ministry of Information and Culture had stated that it is handling 21 restoration projects of historical sites across the country.
According to the spokesperson of this ministry, work has begun on eleven projects so far; however, funding has not yet been allocated for the other ten projects.
Manizha Talash, Afghanistan’s First Female Break-dancer, Will Compete on Olympics Refugee Team
Manizha Talash is considered Afghanistan’s first female break-dancer. She officially began training in 2020, at age 17, with the Kabul-based Superiors Crew after watching a Facebook video of one of the members spinning on his head. When Manizha started breakdancing, a lot of people looked down on what she was doing. Music and dance in Afghanistan are haram, or forbidden, she tells me, and during periods of Taliban control, they’ve been considered crimes. On top of that, women in general are expected to adhere to strict and conservative societal norms.
Afghanistan women’s cricket future again rests with the wrangling of men
The stop-start– or start-stop – story of the Afghanistan women’s cricket team has been sitting in the ICC’s to-do tray since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021. It isn’t a straightforward issue, but no one can say that it has been at the top of the pile, with the governing body largely relying on procedure to explain its sloth-like movement. A brief history: the Taliban’s takeover violently, and instantly, scrubbed out the development of the nascent women’s team – players had only been given contracts in November 2020 and were yet to play a competitive match. The players and their families faced immediate intimidation – with many going home and burning and hiding their equipment for fear of being discovered. They fled over the border to Pakistan and 22 of the 25 were given emergency Australian visas (with two others going to Canada and another to the UK).
UCI bans Afghanistan Cycling Federation President Fazli for abusing fleeing athletes
After an investigation spanning almost three years, the UCI announced on Tuesday that it has suspended Afghanistan Cycling Federation President Fazli Ahmad Fazli for 15 months for breaches of the UCI Code of Ethics.
Fazli was accused of sending abusive and threatening messages to athletes during and after the mass evacuation from the country following the Taliban takeover of the government.
The UCI Ethics Commission banned Fazli from all cycling-related activities under three sections of the UCI Code of Ethics: Article 5, which states, “Persons bound by the Code may not abuse their position in any way, especially to take advantage of their position for private aims or gains”, Article 6.4, which covers abuse and bullying, and Appendix 1 Article 2.1 which prohibits psychological abuse.
Fazli consulted with the UCI during its operation to evacuate cyclists from the country after the Taliban seized control of the government in 2021 and helped prioritise the list of athletes vulnerable to retribution by the Taliban to fill a very limited number of seats on an outgoing airplane.
UCI President David Lappartient helped to secure official refugee status in Switzerland for 38 evacuees including Fazli and his family, and the UCI awarded Fazli with the UCI Merit during the World Championships in Belgium in 2021 “for his courageous commitment to the development of cycling, notably women’s cycling, in a country where fighting for this cause is a risk.”
At the same time, human rights activist Shannon Galpin, who had helped to found the first women’s cycling team in Afghanistan and who was also facilitating evacuations, learned that Fazli was threatening to suspend the licenses of riders who questioned his selection of athletes to evacuate.
Galpin sent letters to the UCI warning them of Fazli’s behaviour 11 days before the UCI awarded Fazli the UCI Merit.
After hearing of the suspension, Galpin told Cyclingnews on Tuesday, “I am glad that the Commission found our case against had merit and that Mr Fazli was in fact guilty of harassing, threatening and verbally abusing Afghan cyclists. A suspension of 15 months is a start, but hardly ample punishment for the lives that he has ruined.
“At a time when cyclists were fleeing for their lives, their own coach and federation president prevented their escape, harassed, and threatened them and all the while he was shielded by UCI.
“What are the reparations for those he harmed? What about those at UCI who chose to ignore those of us who were speaking up? They ignored cyclists and whistleblowers and shielded a known abuser,” she added.
“This is not nothing, but it is too late to help those who risked so much to speak out. To everyone who gave testimony and evidence – thank you for being brave. I hope this helps in some small way.”
In the same press release, the UCI announced the provisional suspension of Gert Vervoort, directeur sportif for the Proximus-Cyclis UCI women’s team for “inappropriate behaviour of a psychological and sexual nature”.
“On the basis of information provided by several riders, the Ethics Commission has decided to provisionally suspend the Sports Director in accordance with article 34.2.2 of the UCI Code of Ethics. This provisional suspension applies for a period of three months from today, while the investigation continues.”
Meet Mohammad Samim Faizad, the Olympian judoka training in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan
Mohammad Samim Faizad is the only Olympic athlete training for the Games inside Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
Faizad is part of a six-strong Afghanistan squad heading to Paris, including three women who are not acknowledged by the Taliban government.
Judoka Faizad is the only member of the team still living in Afghanistan and follows a rigorous regime whilst competing with the challenges of living in a country mired in poverty, recovering from war and governed by the Taliban.
“Physical fatigue subsides after 10 to 20 minutes, but mental and psychological exhaustion is much harder to overcome,” Faizad told AFP.
The 22-years old works odd jobs to fund four hours of training in the Japanese martial art each day at the Afghanistan Judo Federation.
“Judo means a lot to me. One of my biggest dreams has been to someday participate in the Olympic Games.”
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) banned Afghanistan from the Games in 1999, during the first period of Taliban rule from 1996 and 2001 when women were barred from sport.
Taliban government curbs have once again squeezed women out of sport, as well as secondary schools and universities, in strictures the United Nations describes as “gender apartheid”.
A gender-balanced team of three men and three women will represent Afghanistan in Paris for the July 26-August 11 Games in a symbolic move for the first summer Olympics since the Taliban took over in Kabul.
The women will compete in athletics and cycling while their male counterparts will feature in athletics, swimming and judo.
They were selected by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in consultation with Afghanistan’s largely exiled National Olympic Committee.
Taliban officials have not been invited to attend the Paris Games.
Faizad won his spot in a Kabul tournament of more than a hundred competitors.
“I will give my hundred percent to get the gold medal for my country,” said Faizad, who has practised judo for 14 years and is 446th in the men’s world rankings.
The Taliban government have campaigned to be the country’s only representatives at diplomatic forums but in sport have been less dogmatic, praising teams that play under the old flag.
“We don’t want to mix politics and sports,” Atal Mashwani, the spokesman of the Taliban government’s sports directorate, told AFP.
However, he insisted that “only three athletes are representing Afghanistan” at the Olympics, refusing to acknowledge the women competitors.
He added that with time “the flag issues will be solved”.
“The flag of the ruling government will be waved in international sports events,” he said.
Afghanistan first appeared at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin and have won only two bronze medals, both in taekwondo.
“In Afghanistan, there aren’t many opportunities for sport,” said Faizad.
“We don’t have standard clubs to train properly, but we do our best.”
The Paris Olympics will be Faizad’s first international competition — but with the Taliban government unrecognized by any other nation, the trip is difficult and complicated.
Most embassies in Afghanistan were evacuated during the Taliban takeover and Faizad must travel to neighboring Iran to apply for his visa.
“Whether I win or not, and if I return to Afghanistan empty-handed, I will train to be ready for the 2028 Olympic Games,” he added.
Subscribe Now
Don’t miss our future updates! Get Subscribed Today!
© 2024 White Assembly. All Rights Reserved.