SIKA-WEST WEEKLY BULLET POINTS NO. 103: February 25 – March 3, 2014

The program is implemented by AECOM International Development, with funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The program focuses on building the capacity of local government officials, providing vocational training to young people, and supporting community development projects. Capacity building is a key component of the SIKA-West program. Training sessions were provided to local government officials in various districts, including Pusht-e Rod, Bala Boluk, and Khak-e-Safayd. The training sessions focused on stability analysis, meeting management, and project planning. Participants learned how to identify sources of instability, develop work plans, and organize effective meetings. One-on-one mentoring sessions were also provided to government staff to support their capacity building. Vocational training is another key component of the SIKA-West program. To date, 37 vocational grant trainings are ongoing in Farah, Herat, Badghis, and Ghor Provinces. The trainings include courses in tailoring, embroidery, carpet weaving, welding, carpentry, and auto-mechanic skills. Graduates of the trainings received toolkits and certificates to start their businesses. Closing ceremonies were held for the tailoring vocational training courses in various villages, including Gerani Bala and Kanesk Wasat. Community development projects are also supported by the SIKA-West program. In Farah Province, a coordination meeting was held with the Head of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) to discuss the issue of market places for vocational training graduates. The Head of the CCI pledged to provide financial support and coordinate with the Agriculture Department to allocate land for the market place. In Badghis Province, a coordination meeting was held with 16 government staff to discuss security preparedness for the upcoming Presidential Election. The SIKA-West program also supports community development projects in various districts. In Pusht-e Rod District, a mediation session was held between two families who had a marriage dispute. The Tribal Conflict Resolution Committee (TCRC) successfully mediated between the conflicting parties and resolved the conflict. In Muqur District, a meeting was held with 120 people, including Ulema and district government staff, to discuss stability and encourage people to work together to bring stability in the community. The participants prioritized eight new mitigation activities, including road and protection wall rehabilitation. Overall, the SIKA-West program is making significant progress in promoting stability and development in western Afghanistan. The program's focus on capacity building, vocational training, and community development projects is helping to build the capacity of local government officials and support community development initiatives.