Aid in Action

Afghan Geological Survey Complex Renewal

Natural resources contribute to Afghanistan’s economic development

Kabul  | Thursday, June 01, 2006

Photo credit: UNOPS

The Afghan Geological Survey facility was reduced to a derelict shell during the recent years of instability and the majority of geological work ceased.

UNOPS

AFTER: A fully functioning Afghan Geological Survey complex will provide a framework for successful and controlled development of Afghanistan’s natural resources, forming an integral part of the country’s efforts for economic development.

The current Afghan Geological Survey (AGS) complex in Kabul is approximately 25 years old. However, Afghanistan inaugurated the Mines Agency in July 1955. During the recent years of instability the majority of geological work ceased and the facility was reduced to a derelict shell.

The Government of Afghanistan identified the strengthening of the Ministry of Mines and Industry, and the re-establishment of the Afghan Geological Survey as a major priority of reform and rehabilitation. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provided $6.8 million to rehabilitate all existing buildings, as well as the general complex services and infrastructure.

To retain as much of the project funding in Afghanistan, and to build capacity within the Afghan construction industry, UNOPS engaged local Afghan contractors. The result was over 95% of all work was performed by local Afghan contractors.

The complex has the capacity to accommodate over 500 office and support staff, provides kindergarten services for staff children and has an industrial kitchen.

Afghan Geological Survey Complex Renewal 01 Jun 2006 [pdf, 143 KB]