Kabul, Afghanistan (22 February 2007). Improved security in Kandahar province has meant that the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD) has allocated $18 million for building clinics, schools, roads, bridges, water reservoirs, clean drinking water networks, rehabilitating canals, and establishing small scale hydro-electric power stations.

His Excellency, Eshan Zia, the Minister of Rural Rehabilitation and Development said: “Such a massive development surge is unique in the history of Kandahar province, particularly since projects have been selected based on extensive consultation with local people, including elected and traditional leadership.”