Regional Afghan Municipalities Program for Urban Populations (RAMP UP) – RC East Monthly Report: May 2011

The program focuses on improving public services, enhancing community engagement, and promoting economic development. Thirteen provincial capital municipalities in ISAF's RC East undertook public consultations in May 2011 to identify community needs and priorities for municipal public services. Mayors asked community members to propose and prioritize small-scale municipal service delivery improvement projects that could be funded by the municipality with the support of the RAMP UP East program. In May 2011, several municipalities made significant progress in implementing various projects. The Municipality of Mahmud Raqi completed the construction of a 240m sidewalk, drainage ditch, and culverts, providing a cash-for-work opportunity for 427 daily laborers. The Mayor of Puli Alam inaugurated the construction of the second parking lot in the city, which created jobs for unemployed young citizens. The Ghzani city Economic Profile was completed, and the municipal inventory sheet was completed, along with a new business license template. The RAMP UP East program also assisted the Charikar revenue department in registering 2,656 private businesses through a door-to-door survey. The construction of a 1,000m drainage ditch, culverts, and sidewalk project in Bazarak began on 25 May, providing on-the-job training opportunities for Panjsher laborers. Community engagement and outreach were key components of the RAMP UP East program in May 2011. The Mayor of Maidan Shar was interviewed on a live radio broadcast, discussing the new Municipal Improvement Plan (MIP) and providing information about proposed projects. The Mayor of Sharana inaugurated the construction of two public latrines, including five women's latrines, which will include a deep-well, septic tank, and water reservoir. The RAMP UP East program continues to support the development of municipal infrastructure, economic growth, and community engagement in urban areas of Afghanistan. The program's efforts aim to improve the quality of life for citizens and promote sustainable development in the region. The Ghzani city Economic Profile and the municipal inventory sheet provide valuable information for municipal planning and decision-making. The new business license template and the registration of private businesses in Charikar demonstrate the program's commitment to promoting economic development and supporting local businesses. The RAMP UP East program's focus on community engagement and outreach has been successful in promoting public services and improving the quality of life for citizens. The program's efforts to support municipal infrastructure development, economic growth, and community engagement will continue to be essential in promoting sustainable development in urban areas of Afghanistan.