ActionAid, Afghanistan Launches Country Strategy IV (2025–2029): Empowering People, Rebuilding Communities

Kabul, Afghanistan – ActionAid, Afghanistan (AAA) has officially launched its new five-year strategic plan for Afghanistan, titled Country Strategy IV (2025– 2029): Empowering People, Rebuilding Communities. The launch event was attended by Mr. Jagat Patnaik, Asia Regional Head, Mr. Srikanta Misra, Country Director, and staff members from across the country.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Jagat Patnaik expressed his appreciation for the strategy’s alignment with ActionAid’s global priorities, placing people and the planet at the center, enhancing climate resilience, and developing sustainable, adaptive solutions to address humanitarian crises, poverty, and inequality. He emphasized that the strategy also strengthens the organization’s commitment to inclusive work with key social constituencies, particularly women and youth. He described the strategy as a renewed commitment to development, collaboration, and partnership, calling on everyone to stay united and determined in achieving the vision it sets out for Afghanistan.

Following his remarks, Mr. Srikanta Misra reaffirmed ActionAid Afghanistan’s unwavering support for the Afghan people. He noted that the launch of this strategy marks a moment of pride and renewed purpose, stating that it will serve as a guiding framework for the organization’s programming and operations over the next five years. He described the strategy not just as a roadmap, but as a powerful pledge, to work with compassion and determination, to elevate Afghan voices at both national and global levels, and to remain loyal partners in the journey of rebuilding communities. He further emphasized the organization’s long-standing commitment to advancing dignity, equity, and lasting peace.

The strategy outlines four interconnected areas of focus. The first centres on empowering women and girls while promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity. It highlights the importance of strengthening community-based protection mechanisms, addressing gender-based violence and mental health challenges, promoting economic empowerment and leadership opportunities for women and youth, increasing women’s participation in local decision-making processes, and supporting women-led organizations and national advocacy networks.

The second area emphasizes building resilient livelihoods and supporting sustainable and durable solutions and climate positive actions. This includes addressing food insecurity through climate resilient sustainable agricultural practices and improving economic opportunities, especially in vulnerable and underserved regions, to foster long-term resilience within communities. This also emphases on the increased water availability, renewable energy and enhancing biodiversity.

The third area of focus responds to the urgent humanitarian needs of populations affected by conflict, natural disasters, and other crises. ActionAid, Afghanistan will continue to provide emergency humanitarian support, with particular attention to vulnerable groups such as women and girls, who often face heightened risks in times of crisis.

The fourth and final area is dedicated to strengthening the organization’s internal effectiveness. This includes investing in innovation, improving accountability, and enhancing systems and processes to ensure more transparent, adaptive, and impactful programming in an ever-evolving context.

With the launch of Country Strategy IV, ActionAid Afghanistan sets a clear and ambitious course for the next five years. The strategy reaffirms the organization’s deep commitment to empowering communities, supporting recovery, and contributing to a more resilient and peaceful Afghanistan.