Bi-Weekly Report FY5 February 16-29, 2020

Component 1 of the program, Private Sector Development (PSD), is currently undergoing the final rounds of Finance Corps and MBA Corps activities in Kabul, Herat, and Mazar-e-Sharif, with no major issues reported. Additionally, the Microenterprise Support activity is being implemented in Parwan, Bamyan, Kapisa, and Badakhshan provinces. Component 2, Workforce Development, has completed the Field Monitoring and Data Management Training, which was delivered by a subcontractor from October 16, 2019, through February 19, 2020. The training covered topics such as field monitoring, document review, and data management, benefiting 60 women who are expected to secure better jobs. WIE has also started another round of the Ultrasound training in Kabul and Mazar-e-Sharif, with 150 beneficiaries, and the Professional School Management training in Kabul for 150 beneficiaries. Component 3, Technical Services, involves the production of Roya Season 2, a television show aimed at promoting women's empowerment. The subcontractor, Afghanistan, is working to finalize the show episodes after receiving comments and feedback from USAID and WIE. Upcoming activities include regular oversight of MBA Corps and Finance Corps activities, completion of the second round of saffron testing, and graduation ceremonies for various training programs. Client approvals are pending for several requests, including vetting approvals for various companies and organizations. These requests are valued at different amounts, ranging from USD 175,000 to USD 600,000. The program is focused on empowering women in Afghanistan through various initiatives, including private sector development, workforce development, and technical services.