Japan and UNDP Support Alternative Livelihoods and Community Resilience in Afghanistan

Kabul, Afghanistan - 7 April 2026 - The Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are pleased to announce a new joint initiative entitled "Resilient Income Solutions Empowering Alternative Livelihoods" (RISE) to support vulnerable communities affected by climate shocks, the collapse of the poppy economy, and the recent large-scale returnee movements in Afghanistan.

Funded by the Government of Japan, the project seeks to help vulnerable Afghans, particularly women and women-led households, transition toward sustainable livelihoods by expanding access to productive infrastructure, strengthening value chains, and supporting women-led businesses. By offering viable alternatives to illicit economies and negative coping mechanisms, the project aims to stabilize high-risk communities undergoing rapid economic and demographic change.

With a total budget of USD 2,353,333, the project will be implemented from March 2026 to March 2027 and will focus on areas most affected by livelihood instability, food insecurity, and returnee pressure, Balkh and Nimroz provinces. The core focus will be on the construction and rehabilitation of productive community infrastructure such as irrigation systems, water management facilities, and market-supporting assets, while strengthening local production capacities, improving market access, and providing targeted livelihood support to women, youth, returnees, and other vulnerable groups. The project will also promote social cohesion by engaging both host communities and returnees in shared economic activities.

H.E. Mr. Kenichi Masamoto, Ambassador of Japan to Afghanistan, stated: "The Government of Japan remains committed to supporting economic recovery in Afghanistan, particularly for women and vulnerable communities. This project will build upon our previous support to continue providing much-needed sustainable livelihood opportunities".

Mr. Stephen Rodriques, Resident Representative of UNDP Afghanistan, stated: "This project is the latest chapter in the long partnership between UNDP and Japan, which continues to deliver real impact for the people of Afghanistan. In a time when Afghanistan is faced with overlapping economic, social and environmental emergencies, this support from the Government of Japan is vital and offers hope to the vulnerable communities most affected by these crises".

The "Resilient Income Solutions Empowering Alternative Livelihoods" project builds on UNDP's operational experience under the Area-Based Approach to Development Emergency Initiatives (ABADEI) and aligns with the UN Strategic Framework for Afghanistan. It also reflects Japan's commitment to human security by addressing the root causes of instability through livelihoods, community infrastructure, and inclusive economic recovery.

For more information or to request an interview, contact

UNDP Afghanistan
Matthew Duncan
Communications Specialist
Email: [email protected]

Munisa Rashid
Communications Analyst
Email: [email protected]