We’re working to improve the effectiveness of Afghan governance, supporting economic growth, developing basic services and reducing poverty. We are working towards the day when Afghan forces can take charge of the security situation, ensuring a stable and peaceful country.
The UK Government has been supporting an Afghan Government programme to deliver basic services, including water, health, justice and education, in recently secured areas. The programme operates nationally, but the UK has been supporting efforts in Helmand Province. The programme …
I spotted a little girl squatting quietly against the school wall watching the buzz of our official welcome at Tortank Girls’ School in Lashkar Gah. We were greeted by staff and students with a song and flowers. As the rest …
Last week, as I was sat in the garden outside our accommodation, I saw for the first time a lunar eclipse – it was stunning. As the earth’s shadow slowly slipped across the silvery moon surface it was transformed into …
Last week I left Afghanistan for good. When I said goodbye to our local staff member in Helmand he asked "will we see you again in Helmand Province?" "Probably not," I replied. After making Afghanistan my home for the last …
My arrival in Afghanistan coincided nicely with the weather warming up, but until now I didn't feel I'd seen as much of Kabul as I would have liked. My routine is more about meetings with government and partners. I finally …
I was fortunate enough to join the UK Ambassador's visit to Kajaki – a remote and volatile district in Northern Helmand where the surrounding mountains contrast against blue skies and the crystal clear waters of Kajaki Lake. Many of you may have heard of …
With all the media's attention focussed on Libya and other Middle Eastern countries, you might have noticed Afghanistan has slightly fallen off the media radar recently. That's not necessarily a bad thing – it means those of us who work …
I have just returned from another stint in Helmand. Whilst for many, Helmand might evoke images of warfare as seen through news reports back in the UK, I was left with an indelible impression of courage and fortitude as demonstrated …
Recently I was in Helmand to help roll-out a programme on DFID's Bilateral Aid Review. As you might know from reading my last blog, my role here is to roll out key services for the Afghan population in the provinces, …
Hi – my name's Francesca, and I've just arrived in Afghanistan to work for DFID. Over the coming months, I want to share with you my thoughts on the country, on our work here and most importantly - what life is …
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