Afghanistan launches $10M climate resilience project

KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — Afghanistan has received $10 million to mitigate the effects of climate change and improve livelihoods in Badakhshan and Kunar provinces. 

The project will be carried out over five years with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implementation by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

According to Tolonews, the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) confirmed the project’s approval, emphasizing its importance for one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations.

Rohullah Amin, NEPA’s head of climate change, stated that the funding was secured through the GEF, the Least Developed Countries Fund Council, and the Special Climate Change Fund.

Experts highlight Afghanistan’s increasing vulnerability to climate change, citing severe droughts, water shortages, and land degradation.

Mohammad Dawood Shirzad, a university professor, said that the project’s success would depend on financial sustainability, international cooperation, and local community participation. 

Meanwhile, Najibullah Sadeed, a water management expert, said that while the investment remains small compared to Afghanistan’s environmental challenges, it serves as a learning opportunity to identify the most effective climate adaptation strategies.

The initiative will focus on climate-resilient agriculture, afforestation, land restoration, water and soil conservation, and sustainable resource management.

Additionally, the project will introduce drought-resistant plant species, improve irrigation systems, and expand pasturelands in targeted regions.

With Afghanistan facing intensifying climate threats, officials stress that this project marks a critical step toward strengthening community resilience and ensuring food security in the years ahead.