USAID/LGCD

Labors clearing out the Gereshk Bazaar drainage system.

In recent weeks, USAID’s Local Governance and Community Development (LGCD) Project launched two community stabilization grants (CGSs) in Gereshk and Nad Ali of Helmand Province. On behalf of the shopkeepers of the Gereshk bazaar, the mayor approached USAID’s LGCD for funding that would enable the community to engage in the city’s development. In response, one CSG, the first CSG ever implemented in Gereshk, will clear large amounts of rubbish, soil, and rubble that had built up in the bazaars drainage system over years of neglect. This work supports the municipal enhancement of Gereshk, which is the district center of Nahri Sarraj, and has seen improved security in recent months. This grant also boosts employment in the area, providing job opportunities for 45 working-aged males and demonstrating the ability of the mayor to respond to local needs. Another CSG, in Nad Ali Town, will rehabilitate the area of the town bazaar which has fallen into a state of disrepair after years of conflict; it also originated as a request from municipal leadership. A community workforce of 35 people will clear and level the old bazaar road, which is currently unusable, and clean and level the nearby sports field. Both CSGs are demonstrating the active role of municipal leadership in responding to community needs and providing targeted government service delivery.

USAID/Afghanistan Program Highlights Double Issue; 12/15/10-1/15/11