Most residents of Joybar village in the southeastern part of Kapisa province depend on agriculture as their main source of income. Fields are irrigated by a local canal, which is easily damaged by heavy rains. Flooding diverts water from Joybar’s fields, reducing agricultural output and putting many farmers’ livelihoods in jeopardy.
Through its Local Governance and Community Development (LGCD) program, USAID is working with local officials and villagers to build a protection wall for the canal. The project, which is providing employment for approximately 20 Joybar residents for 25 days, will ultimately benefit the entire village by increasing agriculture output and quality. As with all LGCD projects, this effort aims to improve lives in ways that are tangible and direct, while ensuring sustainability and stability by involving local officials in the process.