Advancing Food Security and Community Empowerment in Panjab District, Bamyan Province
As part of AOSD’s ongoing efforts to strengthen food security and promote sustainable livelihoods in Afghanistan, we are pleased to share significant progress under our UNDP-funded Food Security and Livelihoods Programme in the Panjab district of Bamyan province.
Community Bakery Beneficiary Selection Completed
The beneficiary selection process for the Community Bakery initiative has been successfully completed. The project directly supports 300 vulnerable households, reaching a total of 2,104 individuals, with a focus on women-headed and child-headed households, who make up 90% of the beneficiaries.
Each registered individual now receives two loaves of bread daily, helping to meet essential nutritional needs and reduce food insecurity in the region. This initiative not only addresses immediate hunger but also contributes to building resilience among the most at-risk members of the community.
Community-Based Local Committees Established
To ensure community ownership, inclusive governance, and long-term sustainability of the bakeries, AOSD has established Community-Based Local Committees across all project sites. These committees were formed through transparent and participatory processes, with 90% of members being women and youth, ensuring inclusive representation.
The established committees include:
Climate Change and Environmental Protection Committees
Social Cohesion Committees
Economic Development Committees
These local bodies play a crucial role in:
Overseeing daily operations of the community bakeries
Resolving community-level disputes
Mobilizing local support and resources
Acting as a liaison between AOSD, beneficiaries, and stakeholders
Their active involvement reinforces community resilience, fosters collective responsibility, and ensures that the impact of the project extends well beyond immediate food assistance.
