ORD Urges Enhanced Aid Transparency and Efficiency During STFA & UNIDO Delegation Visit to Logar

12 May 2025, Pol-e Alam, Logar Province – The senior management team of the Organization for Relief Development (ORD) held a productive meeting with the visiting delegation from the Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan (STFA) and representatives from UNIDO during their joint field visit to Logar province. The visit focused on monitoring the progress of the ongoing Sustainable Livelihood through MSME Support Project, being implemented by ORD in collaboration with UNIDO.

During the engagement, UNIDO and ORD teams provided a detailed briefing on project achievements, mechanisms ensuring transparency and accountability to affected communities, and the project's role in promoting inclusive local economic development. The delegation was particularly informed of the growing demand among local entrepreneurs for tailored support to boost innovation, income generation, and resilience in the region.

The ORD team expressed deep appreciation for the timely and critical assistance provided through STFA, emphasizing how this support has already begun transforming the lives of vulnerable and at-risk households. They requested the STFA delegation to convey the heartfelt gratitude of beneficiary communities to the contributing donors and stakeholders.

ORD further reiterated its commitment to upholding the principles of efficiency, transparency, and community ownership in all stages of project implementation and encouraged continued collaboration to scale the impact across underserved regions of Afghanistan.

This visit not only reaffirmed the strength of the ORD–UNIDO–STFA partnership but also highlighted the tangible outcomes of coordinated development aid in addressing Afghanistan’s pressing socio-economic challenges.

ORD launched Sustainable Livelihood through MSME Support Project in Logar

On Monday, 12 May 2025, ORD officially inaugurated the MSME Support Project in a major investment event in Logar province.

The gathering aimed to engage with local MSME holders through the MSME Support Project.

The project, funded by the Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan (STFA), is being implemented by ORD in partnership with UNIDO in the southeastern region of Afghanistan, including Logar, Paktia, Khost, and Paktika provinces.

The project aims to enhance sustainable livelihoods through providing grants and technical support to 101 individuals and 10 consortiums in the four targeted provinces.

Through the implementation of the project, the level of poverty will decrease, job opportunities will be created, innovative products will be produced, and the needs of communities will be addressed.

The event brought together 106 participants, including local MSME holders, representatives from DoIC and DoEc, Chamber of Commerce & Investment, national and international NGOs, ORD senior management delegation from the ORD headquarter, UNIDO and representative from STFA.

During the event, UNIDO and ORD programmes were presented to the participants, and the project objectives, activities, procedures, and application forms were explained. Finally, application forms were distributed to 88 interested MSMEs.

ORD Builds Greenhouses to Boost Climate Resilience:

May 3, 2025, Sharana, Center of Paktika: The technical team of the ORD office in Paktika province conducted scheduled monitoring visits to small greenhouses in the Sharana district.

The purpose of this monitoring was to assess the operational status of the greenhouses, evaluate crop progress, and provide necessary recommendations to the beneficiaries.

During the visit, it was observed that the beneficiaries had cultivated cucumbers in their greenhouses, which were approaching the harvesting stage. The beneficiaries expressed satisfaction with the condition and productivity of their greenhouses and thanked the ORD and FAO for its support.

ORD Launches MSME Support Project in Khost to Boost Livelihoods and Private Sector Growth

Khost, May 3, 2025 – The Organization for Relief Development (ORD), in partnership with UNIDO under the STFA- Joint Programme, officially launched its Sustainable Livelihood Support Project for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) development in Khost province.

The high-level inauguration event, held as part of a major investment forum, brought together over 120 participants, including representatives from government departments, UNIDO, national and international NGOs, private sector actors, and local entrepreneurs.

The project funded by the Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan (STFA), and aims to strengthen economic resilience by providing technical and financial assistance to 101 MSMEs and 10 business consortiums across Khost, Paktiya, Logar, and Sharana.

During the forum, UNIDO and ORD jointly presented the project’s key components, including its goals, implementation strategy, and grant application procedures. At the conclusion of the event, application forms were distributed to 96 interested MSME owners and entrepreneurs, marking the beginning of an inclusive and impactful engagement with the region’s private sector.

This initiative reflects ORD and UNIDO's continued commitment to promoting sustainable economic development and private sector empowerment in southeast region of Afghanistan.

ORD initiates the implementation of Sustainable Livelihood Project under UNIDO-STFA Joint programme in South-East Region of Afghanistan.

A major investment forum, organized by Organization for Relief Development (ORD), was held on 28 April 2025 at the Paktia Chamber of Commerce Hall in Gardiz. The event aimed to officially launch the ORD new project under UNIDO-STFA Joint Programme in South-East region (Paktia, Khost, Paktika and Logar provinces), and to engage local entrepreneurs, micro, small and medium sized enterprise (MSME) owners, and the broader private sector in the project.

The project aims to enhance sustainable livelihoods through providing grants and technical support to 101 individuals and 10 consortiums in the four targeted provinces. It targets both formal and informal of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises across various industries and stages of the value chain. Particular focus is placed on community-owned social enterprises, youth - and women-led business, returnees and internally displaced population led businesses with the goal of economic recovery and generating employment opportunities for both men and women.

The event brought together 140 participants, including 85 local entrepreneurs and MSME owners; representatives from the private sector (Chamber of Commerce & Investment, Chamber of Industries and Mines), government line departments (Departments of Industry & Commerce, Department of Economy -DoEc, Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock-DAIL), local media as well as representatives from several UN agencies and national and international NGOs based in Gardiz, and colleagues from UNIDO and ORD.

The participants were briefed on the UNIDO and ORD’s programs in South-East region, with a particular focus on the project’s objectives and opportunities presented by this new project. The event also facilitated open discussions, where the participants including the local entrepreneurs and private sector representatives shared their feedbacks and reflections on the planning and implementation of the interventions.

The MSME / beneficiary selection process was explained in detail, emphasizing that the application process is open to all eligible local entrepreneurs and MSME holders which eligible MSME will be selected through a competitive process based on the predefined criteria. By the end of the event, grant application forms were distributed to 78 interested MSME holders.

ORD Represents Afghanistan at Global South NGO Forum in Baku

The Organization for Relief Development (ORD) proudly represented Afghanistan at the Global South NGO Forum for Solidarity in Action, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from April 27 to 30, 2025. This Global NGO event is attended by Mr. Abdul Bari Hamidi, Deputy Director ORD. The event, hosted by the Social Welfare of the Citizens Public Union in partnership with the National NGO Forum (NNF), convened civil society leaders and development actors under the theme: “Strengthening Global South NGOs for a New and Fair World.”

Bringing together NGOs from across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, the forum focused on fostering South-South cooperation, accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and amplifying local solutions to shared global challenges. ORD’s participation highlighted Afghanistan’s civil society resilience and its commitment to advancing climate action, inclusive development, and regional solidarity, especially in fragile and conflict-affected contexts.

ORD Recognized as a Key Partner in Afghanistan’s National Tree-Planting Campaign

ORD Recognized as a Key Partner in Afghanistan’s National Tree-Planting Campaign On 01 May 2025, a special recognition ceremony held at the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) headquarters, Kabul-Afghanistan.

The Government of Afghanistan honored national and international NGOs for their outstanding contributions to the 1403 National Tree-Planting Campaign. With the support of FAO, ORD successfully contributed over 42000 fruit tree saplings during the year in southeastern Afghanistan.

The event, hosted by NEPA and civil society organizations, brought together key representatives from government agencies and the NGO community. During his remarks, NEPA Director General Mawlawi Matiul-Haq Khalis praised the active, timely, and meaningful participation of NGOs, emphasizing their critical role in environmental restoration and climate resilience. He called on NGOs to submit their reforestation and Tree-Planting commitments for the upcoming year in advance, aiming to expand and strengthen the campaign’s impact in 1404.

ORD was proudly recognized among 12 distinguished NGOs for its exceptional performance and commitment to reforestation initiatives across Afghanistan. The ceremony received wide coverage from local media, highlighting the collective momentum toward a greener and more sustainable future.

The National Climate Change Conference

15 January 2025, Kabul – The National Climate Change Conference, jointly organized by the Organization for Relief Development (ORD) and the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA), successfully concluded at Kabul Star Hotel, marking a significant step forward in Afghanistan’s fight against climate change.

The conference reaffirmed a strong, collective commitment to prioritize climate action in 2025, emphasizing that climate change must be addressed as a humanitarian issue beyond political boundaries.

The event brought together over 200 influential participants, including representatives from government ministries, UN agencies, Kabul-based diplomats, national and international NGOs, the media, the private sector, and academic institutions.

Discussions and collaborative efforts during the conference are set to shape innovative climate adaptation strategies and drive the creation of a comprehensive National Climate Action Roadmap for Afghanistan.

(ORD FAO)

On March 24, 2025, The ORD/FAO Paktia team initiated the distribution of apple saplings to 243 eligible households within the Gardiz District of Paktia province, under the UNJP/AFG/133/UNJ-SE1 project. Each household received ten saplings intended for establishing standard orchards, accompanied by comprehensive theoretical and practical training in planting and irrigation techniques. Representatives from the Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (DAIL), the Economic Directorate, and the ARM of Paktia province closely monitored the distribution to ensure proper implementation.

(ORD FAO)

Today (16th March, 2025 ) The ORD/FAO Khost team conducted a successful distribution of Persimmon,fruit saplings to 243 eligible households in Center Maton Khost province, under the UNJP/AFG/133/UNJ-SE1 project. Each beneficiary received 10 saplings, intended for the establishment of standard Persimmon. Additionally, recipients were provided with both theoretical and Practical training, so they can learn how to plant and water saplings on their land. The distribution process was subject to meticulous monitoring by representatives from the Directorate of Agriculture of Khost province "And by the representative of TPM.

On March 9th, 2025

The ORD/FAO Khost team conducted a successful distribution of pear fruit saplings to five eligible households in the Nadershah Kot District of Khost province, under the OSRO/AFG/140/WBK project. Each beneficiary received 700 saplings, intended for the establishment of standard orchards. The distribution process was subject to meticulous monitoring by representatives from the Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock (DAIL) of Khost province.

(UNJP/AFG/133/UNJ-SE1)

According to the plan, from 2/3/2025 to 5/3/2025." In Maton ( Lakan & Cheghai) Village and in Sabari District of Khost Province, The ORD/FAO Khost team successfully distributed Cash for Work ( CFW) and Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) for Targeted 660 eligible households as part of the project (UNJP/AFG/133/UNJ-SE1). Each beneficiary received 100 USD for CFW and 84 USD for UCT . The distribution process was meticulously monitored by representatives from the DoE and DAIL of Khost Province to ensure compliance and effectiveness

ORD/FAO

The ORD/FAO Khost team, Successfully distributed Pine Harvesting Kits to 40 eligible households as part of the Project (UNJP/AFG/133/UNJ-SE1) Each beneficiary received a comprehensive Kit consisting of Pinecone Picking Shears , Three Climbing Spikes , Safety Harness with Safety Rope and Working Gloves . Additionally, recipients were provided with both theoretical and Practical training on the use of tools. It is worth mentioning that this distribution was carried out under the direc supervision of the Speera District, the esteemed Department of Agriculture and tribal elders.

(ORD FAO)

On 18th February 2025, In Shwak District of Paktya province, The ORD/FAO Paktya team successfully distributed Pine Harvesting Kits to 120 eligible households as part of the project ( UNJP/AFG/133/UNJ-SE1 ). Each beneficiary received a comprehensive kit consisting of Pinecone Picking Shears, Tree Climbing Spikes, a Safety Harness with a Safety Rope, and Working Gloves. Additionally, recipients were provided with both theoretical and practical training on the use of these tools. The distribution process was meticulously monitored by representatives from the DoE and DAIL of Paktya province to ensure compliance and effectiveness.

(ORD)

The Organization for Relief Development (ORD), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), has successfully concluded the Cash for Work (CfW) program across six districts: Gardiz, Zurmat, Sharana, Matakhan, Matoon, and Sabari in the provinces of Paktya, Paktika, and Khost. This initiative was part of the broader UNJP/AFG/133/UNJ-SE1 project, which aimed to support 1,800 vulnerable laborers by providing them with employment for 20 working days. We are proud to report that the program was implemented effectively, leading to the successful completion of all outlined activities: 1- Construction of 09 gabion box check dam with a total length of 126 meters. 2- Construction of 72-meter dry stone check dam. 3- Construction of 75 meters of stone masonry protection wall. 4- Repaired of 3 Siphon. 5- Construction of 2 culverts. 6- Construction of 32-meter Kariz canal 7- Repair and cleaning of 600 meters of Kariz (traditional water channels). 8- Excavation of 39,450 trenches 9- Cleaning of the 8771-meter canal. 10- Construction and repair of one water pond.

(ORD FAO)

The distribution of improved wheat seeds and chemical fertilizer packages under the title of the 140/WBK Project, funded by FAO and technically supported by ORD , has been successfully completed today in a peaceful and calm atmosphere in five districts of Khost province : Maton, Ismail Khel/ Mandozi, Tani, Bak, and Alisher. The total beneficiaries of these packages were 4,400 eligible farmers.Each individual received 50 Kg Wheat seeds, 50 Kg Urea and 50 Kg DAP. This distribution was directly monitored by the Directorate of Economy, Directorate of Agriculture, and ARM. In summary, the process was carried out efficiently and successfully.

Completion of the 203 & 129/ASB FAO Project in Farah Province

The "Provision of Essential and Sustainable Services" project in Farah, launched in July 2022, was successfully completed by the end of 2024. The final Activites were handed over to the Directorate of Agriculture and Economy of Farah Province. The project aimed to improve livelihoods and empower 25,787 beneficiaries in various sectors. Key activities included: Distribution of improved seeds for wheat, maize, vegetables, and summer crops, along with fertilizers. Support for farmers' interest groups and local cooperation. Distribution of poultry farms and essential kits. Supply of animal feed and vaccination for livestock health. Distribution of home gardening kits for food security. Strengthening early warning committees for drought preparedness. These efforts positively impacted the beneficiaries, improving agricultural development and household economies. Upon completion, the final reports were delivered to the Directorate of Agriculture and Economy, which appreciated the project's success and expressed interest in future initiatives.

(ORD)

Today, 06/01/2025 ORD's Khost office distributed wheat seeds Packages and chemical fertilizers to 800 deserving farmers in Bak district of Khost province.Each individual received 50 kg wheat seeds, 50 kg Urea and 50 kg DAP. The event was attended by the general director of agricultural affairs for Bak district, the representative of ARM, as well as tribal elders. The distribution was conducted in a very smooth and peaceful manner, and all the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to ORD.

(ORD FAO)

Today, 30/12/2024 in the center of Khost province, Maton, ORD distributed Wheat Seed Packages and Chemical fertilizers to 900 deserving farmers. Each individual received 50 kg Wheat Seeds, 50 kg Urea and 50 kg DAP. It is worth mentioning that representatives from the esteemed Department of Economy, the Department of Agriculture, ARM representatives, and tribal elders participated in this distribution and closely observed the process. The Director of Extension from the Agriculture Department praised ORD's work and expressed gratitude to its staff. The distribution was carried out in an excellent manner.

The FAO team conducted monitoring visits to ORD activities in Farah Province

The FAO team conducted monitoring visits to ORD activities in Farah Province On December 29-30, 2024, a team from the FAO offices in Kabul and the Herat regional office, including Mir Aqa Hussainkhil and Najibullah Khpalwak, visited Farah Province to monitor 129 ASB projects. On the first day, December 29, the team visited Pusht Rod District, where they observed the activities of the summer crop maize seed package project implemented by ORD. They also held meetings with the established CIGs (Common Interest Groups) in the district. Today, the team traveled to Anar Dara District to monitor the livestock-related CIGs. They expressed satisfaction with the proper implementation of the projects and pledged further cooperation with the eligible beneficiaries and the established groups in the mentioned districts.

(ORD)

Khost, 24 December 2024: In order to ensure quality and timely completion of projects, ORD Deputy Director Mr. Hamidi and ORD Climate Manager Mr. Mosawi visited ORD-FAO khost program and Khost zonal office staff. During this visit they clisely supervised all field activities and stressed on quality of the project implementation and program visibility and protection of the rights of affected people. FAO and ORD provide formers with climate resistant agriculture services in khost province.

ORD NCA

Vocational Skill Tool Kit Distribution in Samangan Province On December 22, 2024, the NCA/ORD Technical Team successfully distributed vocational skill tool kits to 30 trainees (15 male and 15 female) in Hazrat Sultan and Feroznakhchir districts of Samangan Province as part of the Sustainable Employment and Profit through Vocational Training, Value Chain, and Enterprise Development project. Each male trainee received a mobile repairing tool kit, while each female trainee received a Shall weaving tool kit. At the end of the project, all participants were awarded certificates recognizing their acquired skills. The distribution process was closely supervised by representatives from the Economic Department of Samangan Province, ensuring transparency and effectiveness in promoting sustainable employment in the region.

Successful Completion of PPR Vaccination Campaign in Farah Province

On December 19, 2024, the ORD Farah OSRO/AFG/129/ASB veterinary team successfully completed the PPR (Pestel des Petits Ruminants) vaccination process for 2,000 households in the Anar Dara, Shib Koh, and Lash Jowin districts of Farah Province. Each household received 8 to 10 doses of the PPR vaccine for their sheep and goats. This vaccination initiative is part of the 129 ASB project’s livestock intervention. It is important to note that these households previously received additional livestock support, including animal feed, dairy kits, chopper machines, and crop seeds. Similar processes will soon be carried out in the Purchaman district for nearly 1,200 ranchers.

(ORD/FAO)

Our colleagues and the engineering team are continuously conducting daily monitoring of the Cash-for-Work Program activities in Matoon Center and Sabari District. We can confidently say that our engineering team and other colleagues are working hard to ensure that the projects are completed according to the plan and on time.

(ORD/FAO)

ORD/FAO Launch Cash for Work Program Benefiting 900 Vulnerable Laborers in Sar-e-Pul Province On December 6, 2024, the Organization for Relief and Development (ORD), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), launched a Cash for Work (CfW) program in Gosfandi District, Sar-e-Pul Province. This initiative is part of the broader OSRO/AFG/140/WBK project, designed to support 900 vulnerable laborers through both CfW activities and unconditional cash transfers in Sar-e-Pul Province. As part of the program, 400 laborers in Gosfandi District will undertake the following activities: Construction of three gabion box check dams (22m, 20m, and 18m in length). Excavation of 30 m³ of Kanda Excavation of 23,125 trenches During the program's launch ceremony, ORD’s technical team distributed personal protective equipment (PPE) and hand tools to participating laborers. Representatives from the Sar-e-Pul Department of Agriculture and other key stakeholders attended the event to oversee the project's commencement.