Abu Dhabi: On the occasion of Afghanistan’s 98th National Day, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) on Saturday released a report documenting how the group has to date allocated Dh1.2 billion for 18 development projects to help with the growth of the country.
The projects span several different sectors: agriculture, housing, energy, transport, industry, health, and social housing, showing a robust and strong relationship between the ADFD and Afghanistan.
Mohammad Saif Al Suwaidi, director general of ADFD, extended his sincerest greetings to the Afghan government and people on their National Day wishing them continued prosperity.
“Our nation’s founding father, late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, laid the foundation for the UAE’s deep rooted cooperation with Afghanistan. Today, under the leadership of President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, our country remains committed to continuing and further enhancing ties with Afghanistan,” he said.
“Under the strategic guidance and counsel of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development’s Board of Directors, the Fund is currently a key partner of the Afghan government in advancing and supporting sustainable economic and social development across that country,” he added.
Al Suwaidi remarked that the ADFD’s support for Afghanistan spanned four decades.
“In cooperation with regional and international institutions, ADFD is proud to spearhead this noble march to extend financial assistance for the greater good of the Afghan people. Over a time span of four decades, the Fund has significantly contributed to Afghan society through investments in sustainable infrastructure projects that benefit all citizens,” he said.
Key projects
Kabul Infrastructure Expansion and Rehabilitation Works (Phase I & II)
With its sustained focus on infrastructure works in advancing socioeconomic development, ADFD contributed about Dh136 million to the development of the country’s transport sector. Phase I of the Kabul Infrastructure Expansion and Rehabilitation project witnessed the refurbishment of some of Kabul’s major roads and bridges, ensuring ease of movement and travel for commuters and reducing traffic jams. This two-phased project also involved the construction of three major roads totalling 17 kilometres in length and 40-60 metres in width, and the establishment of rainwater drainage systems and pedestrian sidewalks.
Mazar-e-Sharif International Airport Rehabilitation Works
In 2009, ADFD administered an Abu Dhabi government grant worth Dh55 million to further develop and rehabilitate the Mazar-e-Sharif International Airport. This project included the construction of a new runway to serve international flights capable of accommodating large aircraft, particularly Airbus 300 and Boeing 747 models. The project included the rehabilitation and overhaul of the old runway, as well as building passage ways to link both runways and aircraft parking bays. This crucial project led to the construction of a new passenger terminal, restoration of the old terminal and also equipped the air control tower with navigation devices.
Housing units in Al Qasaba District in Kabul
In line with the directives of Shaikh Khalifa to contribute to international efforts in supporting the Afghan government’s housing development goals, the Abu Dhabi government provided a grant of $250 million (Dh918 million) to the government of Afghanistan. Within this framework, ADFD allocated Dh708 million in 2010 for the housing units in Al Qasaba District in Kabul project. This crucial project witnessed the construction of 3,330 housing units across 53.8 hectares.
Baghlan sugar factory
ADFD contributed Dh17 million for the construction of the Baghlan sugar factory. Over the past years, this strategic project has supported the local Afghan economy and revitalised the agriculture sector through increasing the production capacity for exporting sugar. In addition, this initiative also equipped the factory that boasts a 27,000 tonnes capacity per year, with necessary hardware and advanced equipment.
Sheikh Zayed University in Khost Province
In line with supporting the Afghan government’s goals to improve the education sector, ADFD managed an estimated Dh27 million Abu Dhabi government grant to develop the Shaikh Zayed University in Khost Province. This grant helped source and enhance specialised faculties at the university, particularly in the fields of medicine, engineering, law, arts, literature, and in education sciences, among other diverse disciplines. Furthermore, to prepare all students for employment and equip them with knowledge and capabilities to overcome socioeconomic challenges, this project also included vocational career support initiatives.
Cooperation with the standing committee for humanitarian and development aid in Afghanistan
The Abu Dhabi government provided approximately Dh195 million for the standing committee for humanitarian and development assistance in Afghanistan. To manage and optimise the effectiveness of the UAE’s contribution, ADFD was tasked with allocating and managing this grant through directing funds and resources to best meet the humanitarian and development needs of the Afghan people.
