On Tuesday morning, the Acting Head of Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority, Alhaj Mullah Nooruddin Turabi, met with the General Director of Operations of Cordaid International, Ms. Monica Maria, the Head of Cordaid in Afghanistan, Sayed Latif Ahmad Beshardost, the Donor Relations Officer, Ms. Johanna Maria, the Head of Humanitarian Programs at Cordaid’s Headquarters, Cornelius De Roner and other members of the delegation at his office.
During the meeting, Alhaj Mullah Nooruddin Turabi Sahb welcomed the delegation and noted that climate change has had significant negative impacts globally, with Afghanistan being particularly affected due to its geographical location.
Alhaj Turabi Sahb further stated that Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority has provided necessary facilities for all active organizations in Afghanistan to carry out their activities transparently and effectively.
He emphasized that humanitarian aid must be distributed based on the genuine needs of the Afghan people and essential items should be procured from the areas where projects are implemented to strengthen the local economy and maximize benefits for recipients.
The Authority’s Acting Head also highlighted that Afghanistan is among the most vulnerable countries and while many organizations are engaged in distributing humanitarian aid, he urged them to prioritize foundational projects aimed at reducing and preventing risks.
He added that Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority has developed a comprehensive and detailed information system that records data on vulnerable areas down to the village and district levels.
Based on this system, preventive projects are being implemented using the IEA’s budget. He called on organizations to enhance their cooperation in this regard, as prevention is better than response.
Subsequently, the Head of Cordaid in Afghanistan, Sayed Latif Ahmad Beshardost, expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation of Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority’s Acting Head and stated that Cordaid would align its future programs with the Authority’s guidance and recommendations.
At the same time, members of the Cordaid delegation reaffirmed their commitment to continuing their humanitarian activities in Afghanistan and pledged to share the Authority’s suggestions—particularly regarding the procurement of goods from local markets in project implementation areas and the expansion of preventive projects—with their donors.
In conclusion, both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening coordination and cooperation in managing natural disasters.
The Cordaid delegation committed to sharing their projects with other organizations and donors.