With Donald Trump’s return to power in the United States, he has suspended all international aid for the next 90 days. Recent reports indicate that the financial flow of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan is also being cut off. This news comes at a time when the country is facing a harsh winter and economic challenges. While this is a concerning development, it should serve as a wake-up call for Afghans to move away from reliance on foreign aid and take fundamental steps toward national stability and progress.
The experiences of the past several decades have shown that while foreign aid may provide short-term relief, it can never lead a country to economic independence. The most important lesson for Afghans is that sustainable progress requires self-reliance. They must boost their domestic production, strengthen the internal economy, and create new opportunities in trade, agriculture, industry, and technology.
The Afghan government has a responsibility to continue implementing policies that contribute to the country’s economic stability. Attracting investors, expanding exports, and strengthening the industrial sector are crucial steps the government must take. Likewise, instead of relying on humanitarian aid, securing international cooperation to create economic opportunities should be a priority.
Afghans must now realize that perpetual dependency on aid cannot build a strong and independent Afghanistan. It is imperative to focus on skill development, private sector growth, and effective management of national resources to establish an economic system that allows them to fulfill their own needs.
By developing agriculture, handicrafts, mineral resource extraction, and small- and medium-sized enterprises, Afghanistan can diversify its revenue sources. Moreover, serious attention must be given to education and technical training to enable Afghans to compete in the global market and contribute to their country’s economic growth.
The reduction in international aid can also be seen as an opportunity if Afghans take steps toward self-sufficiency. This transformation cannot be achieved solely through government efforts; rather, it requires national collaboration, hard work, and dedication from all sectors of society. Now is the time for Afghans to utilize their resources, prioritize national unity, and actively work toward strengthening their economy.
In conclusion, while the suspension of humanitarian aid may be difficult for some, it should serve as a clarion call for Afghans to take charge of their future. Instead of waiting for foreign assistance, they must embrace self-reliance and strive for a stable, independent, and prosperous Afghanistan.
