NILI – The contribution of civil society organizations in improving quality service delivery, and participation in conflict prevention, management, and conflict resolution was the center of discussion during a UN-backed radio programme in the central highlands province of Daikundi.

Speaking during a radio programme broadcast by Radio Aftaab and Radio Daikundi, panellists stressed the contribution of civil society in promoting peace, improving service delivery and facilitating access to education especially for girls and women.

One of the panellists, Ewaz Poya, head of the Economic Department in Daikundi, said that the provincial government works in partnership with a wide range of civil society organizations including hosting “joint planning sessions” to improve delivery of basic services, especially to remote districts. “Inputs by civil society add quality and value to our planning, decisions and enables effective implementation especially to rural communities,” he said.

Another panellist, and member of the Daikundi civil society, Laila Hussaini, said civil society has helped to bridge the gap between authorities and communities as well as managing the needs of communities against limited resources and capacities of the provincial government. 

Remote and impoverished, Daikundi lacks necessary infrastructure and quality services including education, health, and roads leading to occasional tensions among and between communities.

Supported by UNAMA’s Bamyan regional office, the radio programme broadcast to an estimated audience of 120,000 in and around the capital city, Nili, is part of a country-wide outreach initiative aimed at creating platforms for local communities to engage in dialogue on critical issues, including peace and development.

UNAMA supports the Afghan people and government to achieve peace and stability. In accordance with its mandate as a political mission, UNAMA backs conflict prevention and resolution, promoting inclusion and social cohesion, as well as strengthening regional cooperation. The Mission supports effective governance, promoting national ownership and accountable institutions that are built on respect for human rights.

UNAMA provides 'good offices' and other key services, including diplomatic steps that draw on the organization’s independence, impartiality and integrity to prevent disputes from arising, escalating or spreading. The Mission coordinates international support for Afghan development and humanitarian priorities.