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Before & After

Photo: UNOPS

BEFORE - The Afghan Geological Survey facility was reduced to a derelict shell during the years of instability in the 1990’s, and the majority of geological work ceased.

Photo: UNDP/Nikos Savvides

AFTER - A fully functioning Afghan Geological Survey complex provides a home base for successful development of Afghanistan’s natural resources, forming an integral part of the country’s efforts for economic growth.

The Afghan Geological Survey complex in Kabul, which used to house the Ministry of Mines and Industry, is about 25 years old. During the past 25 years of instability, the majority of geological work ceased and the facility was reduced to a derelict shell. The Government of Afghanistan identified strengthening the Ministry and re-establishing the complex as a major priority.

USAID provided $6.8 million to rehabilitate its existing buildings. However, the number of skilled construction workers in Afghanistan is very low. To address this need, USAID worked with the United Nations Office for Project Services to engage local Afghan contractor and as a result, over 95 percent of all work was performed by local Afghan contractors. Renovations on the complex are now complete. With offices, a kindergarten, and even an industrial kitchen, it can now accommodate over 500 staff and focus on the business of promoting industry and development.

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