Japan Pledges ¥1.474B to Strengthen Climate Resilience in Afghanistan Communities

DID Press: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) announced a financial support package for Afghanistan aimed at boosting climate resilience among vulnerable communities. The support follows the signing of a grant agreement with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) for the “Community‑Centered Climate Change Adaptation Project in Afghanistan.”

The agreement was signed on Sunday (Feb. 9) by Katy Ann Webley, Head and Representative of UNOPS in Afghanistan, and Tosaka Sota, Head of the JICA Afghanistan Office.

Under the terms of the agreement, Japan will provide up to 1,474 million Japanese yen (approximately USD 10 million, depending on exchange rates) for a 24‑month project implemented by UNOPS in Kabul province. The initiative seeks to increase the capacity of targeted communities to cope with climate‑related hazards and reduce loss of life and economic damage.

The project adopts a community‑centered approach, focusing on the development of climate disaster response facilities and conducting training and awareness activities to strengthen local capacities. These efforts are expected to sustainably enhance community preparedness against climate events.

The initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and Goal 13 (Climate Action).

Afghanistan is among the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. This new cooperation between JICA and UNOPS represents a significant step toward reinforcing local resilience and reducing vulnerability to natural disasters.