Small infrastructure projects, visible improvements in municipal services, technical assistance and professional development—these are among the hallmarks of ICMA’s ongoing programs in Afghanistan. Since 2004, ICMA has worked behind the scenes in this war-torn country to help build the capacity of municipal officials and staff to deliver services that improve the lives of Afghan citizens—and to increase citizens’ confidence in their municipal governments.
One of ICMA’s ground-breaking programs, the Afghanistan Municipal Strengthening Program (AMSP), ended in August, leaving behind a long series of successes and a model for subsequent programs. Many of AMSP's accomplishments will be continued and expanded through programs that pick up where AMSP left off, including the new Regional Afghan Municipalities Program for Urban Populations (RAMP UP).
When ICMA’s involvement in Afghanistan began, urban conditions had deteriorated during years of conflict and neglect. Many streets were unpaved and muddy; street-side ditches were filled with trash and sewage; parks and public spaces had turned to dumping grounds; and municipal officials and staffs lacked training in management of government functions and services.
Employing a “learning by doing” approach, AMSP formed teams in 11 provincial capitals, providing technical assistance and training to develop the capacity of municipal staff and laborers. Together, the teams completed small-scale projects that improved living conditions, created employment opportunities, increased municipal revenue, and strengthened citizen confidence in local government.
During its three-year lifespan, AMSP activities and accomplishments included:
- Improvement of roads, parks, water systems, and other basic infrastructure
- Construction of public parking lots, markets, and other revenue-generating facilities
- Implementation of solid waste management systems (trash collection, ditch cleaning, work force training, public information)
- Renovation of municipal offices and buildings, including new office equipment and furnishings
- Opportunities for girls and women (education, internships, markets, social gathering spots)
- Sports activities and intern opportunities to encourage young peoplen to engage with their communities and channel their energies productively
- Technical assistance and municipal staff development training in English language, computer, and public administration skills (financial management, public works, economic development, planning, other service delivery areas)
- Development of a Municipal Governance in Afghanistan handbook and a Municipal Management Manual to be used as a reference for managers and for trainers
- GIS mapping of each municipality and the development of citizen-driven strategic municipal action plans.
The following PowerPoint presentation provides a photographic "before and after" account of many AMSP improvements.
For additional information, visit the Afghanistan section of the ICMA website or the International Development topic area in the Knowledge Network, or contact international@icma.org.