Launch of the Sustainable Livelihood Project in Collaboration with the Paktia Chamber of Commerce – Joint Program by ORD and UNIDO-STFA

Launch of the Sustainable Livelihood Project – ORD and UNIDO-STFA Joint Program

On April 28, 2025, under the joint program of UNIDO-STFA, the Organization for Relief Development (ORD) officially launched the implementation of the Sustainable Livelihoods Project in Afghanistan’s southeastern provinces.

The major investment forum, organized by ORD, was held in the hall of the Paktia Chamber of Commerce in Gardez. This event marked the official launch of ORD’s new project under the joint UNIDO-STFA framework, covering southeastern provinces including Paktia, Khost, Paktika, and Logar. The main objective was to invite regional entrepreneurs, micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and wider private sector players to participate in this initiative.

The project aims to strengthen sustainable livelihoods through financial and technical support to 101 individuals and 10 consortiums. It targets both formal and informal MSMEs across multiple sectors and value chain stages. The program places particular emphasis on community-based enterprises, youth- and women-led businesses, as well as returnee and internally displaced entrepreneurs to promote economic recovery and job creation for both men and women.

A total of 140 participants attended the forum, including 85 local entrepreneurs and MSME owners, private sector representatives (Chambers of Commerce and Industries), government entities (Departments of Industry and Commerce, Economy, Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock), local media, UN agencies, national and international NGOs, and partners from UNIDO and ORD.

Participants received detailed information about ORD and UNIDO programs in the southeastern region, with specific focus on the goals and opportunities presented by this new project. The forum also enabled open discussions where entrepreneurs and private sector representatives shared their views and suggestions about the project design and implementation.

The MSME/beneficiary selection process was thoroughly explained, emphasizing that the application process is open to all eligible local entrepreneurs and MSMEs. Qualified MSMEs will be selected based on pre-established competitive criteria. At the conclusion of the event, application forms for financial support were distributed to 78 interested MSME owners.