UNDP Head: Not Time to Turn Away from Afghanistan Amid Economic Challenges and Positive Signs

KABUL (Pajhwok) -- Stephen Rodriguez, head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for Afghanistan, said in an exclusive interview that the country faces serious economic and humanitarian problems but also shows positive progress, with continued global support key to stability and growth.

Rodriguez noted that according to the World Food Programme, about 17.4 million Afghans still need food assistance, while UNDP assessments indicate nearly 75% of the population lives in survival mode. Over the past 2.5 years, more than 5 million Afghans have returned from Iran and Pakistan, and drought, floods, and climate change have exacerbated economic woes.

He highlighted that for the first time in 40 years, relative peace and stability prevail, presenting a major opportunity for economic growth. The World Bank forecasts over 4% growth last year, with increased public trust in banking. The private sector is expanding, and the government is boosting revenue collection and infrastructure projects.

UNDP's priorities include job creation and livelihoods, access to basic services, and mitigating climate impacts, such as water management, check dams, and flood prevention. Only about 40% of Afghans have electricity access. Agriculture, which sustains 70% of the population, receives support through practical programs.

Post-poppy cultivation ban, UNDP has aided over 70,000 farmers with alternatives. It supported more than 80,000 businesses, creating around 430,000 jobs, and provided health services to over 2.5 million Afghans last year, including solar power for more than 200 clinics.

Rodriguez said restrictions on women cause significant economic losses -- estimated at $1.37 billion annually by the World Bank and $1.92 billion over the past two years by UNDP -- and have supported about 78,000 women-owned businesses. These curbs also hinder UN and international organizations' work, particularly women-only health and education services.

He urged the international community to invest in long-term development rather than disengaging, noting 400,000 youth graduate yearly needing jobs, and described Afghans as patient and resilient with a bright future.