Sustainable Livelihoods and Social Development (SLSD)

Due to three decades of subsequent conflicts and wars the south-eastern region of Afghanistan has been trapped in a vicious circle of violence and poverty. Accordingly, the poverty level is significantly higher than the national average of 35.8%, namely 47.9% in Khost and 60.6% in Paktia. Livelihoods options are very limited and consist mainly of subsistence agriculture, animal husbandry, local trade, and few government functions. Remittances are an important source of income. Disputes around land and water are a main source of conflicts, due to unclear legal frameworks and weak conflict resolution mechanisms. Access to basic services is very limited. Compared to the national literacy average of 40% m/20% f, the rate in the target region is 25% m/1.5% f.

Contribute to social cohesion and economic development in the south-east region with improved natural resources management and income opportunities benefitting both men and women while building capacities of local actors.

The rural population in six selected districts in Khost and Paktia Provinces and the formal and informal institutions on community, district and provincial levels (Community Development Councils CDCs, District Development Assemblies DDAs, District Governors DGs PGs, relevant line departments, shuras, maliks, tribal elders)

1. Communities improve and diversify agricultural and livestock production.
2. Communities resolve their conflicts on natural resources by applying sustainable water, land and forest management practices.
3. Local actors and service delivery institutions (public and private) in the two provinces effectively manage social and economic develop¬ment and deliver needed services to the people.

Phase 1 15.05.2013 - 31.05.2016   (Completed)