I work on programmes that support local authorities to deliver basic services such as water and electricity. I have been in DFID for seven years; my previous roles involved working on job creation in conflict areas and providing debt relief to poor countries. I have previously worked in Sudan and Burundi and am a newcomer to Afghanistan!
I recently travelled to Mazar-e-Sharif with my colleagues Zoe and Chris to get a better understanding for how we can help the central government in Kabul improve its delivery of core services for local people – from schools to healthcare to …
I recently travelled to Herat, a beautiful city in the west of the country, with my economist colleague Kevin. Kevin has kindly agreed to write a guest blog about our trip: As someone returning to Afghanistan, I have found progress …
As I mentioned in my last blog post, I recently travelled to Bamyan and Uruzgan to see whether Strengthening Provincial Administration and Delivery (SPAD) – a UK/Denmark funded programme - can make a difference there. Bamyan is a province in …
Local governance in Afghanistan is full of acronyms – PDP, DCC, DDA, PGO to name just a few – and SPAD is the latest addition. Admittedly, UK civil servants when they hear "SPAD" will not think of a programme that …
Tourism was not the first thing I expected to do while living in Kabul, but I recently discovered that there are some impressive sights to visit, including the treasures at the National Museum of Afghanistan. The museum was built in …
I have just returned to Kabul following a visit home to London to see my family during the Olympics. It is obviously quite a contrast between the shiny capital of "Team GB" and dusty Kabul which is still rebuilding itself …
I recently travelled to Helmand province in the south of Afghanistan to see for myself the activities DFID and others carry out there. I was most interested in seeing improvements in governance and basic service delivery. It was an exciting trip …
I've spent a month in Kabul already, which has passed in a flash! In this time, I have got to grips with my job, which is to help strengthen government systems - especially how the government in Kabul works with local structures …
A large sign greets me with 'Welcome to the land of the brave' in the arrival hall in Kabul. I have just stepped off the plane, and am wondering what the year ahead will bring. This is my first time …
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