A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the implementation of simplified work procedures aimed at improving service delivery and streamlining administrative processes has been signed between the Administrative Reform and Civil Service Authority (under the General Directorate of Administrative Affairs) and the Kabul Municipality.
According to a statement from the Kabul Municipality, the agreement was signed and put into effect by Sheikh Noor-ul Haq Anwar, Director General of the Administrative Affairs Office; Mawlawi Abdul Rashid, Mayor of Kabul; and Qari Wafiyullah Wafa, Head of the Administrative Reform and Civil Service Authority.
The MoU was developed in light of Decree No. (3) dated 15/2/1447 AH issued by the Esteemed Amir al-Mu’minin, Cabinet Resolution No. (5) dated 1/3/1447 AH, and subsequent approvals, with the aim of simplifying and accelerating administrative processes across various sectors.
Under the agreement, procedures for issuing construction permits in both planned and unplanned areas have been reviewed and will be implemented in a more streamlined and effective manner, in accordance with established principles, guidelines, and standard operating procedures.
At the signing ceremony, the Director General of the Administrative Affairs Office stated: “This step is an important measure toward reducing administrative bureaucracy, accelerating urban services, and enhancing transparency in administrative processes.”
He further emphasized that if any adjustments to the work procedures are required, the joint committee will be responsible for reviewing and implementing the necessary revisions.
Dr. Sadruddin Tajik, Deputy for Urban Planning and Development at Kabul Municipality, highlighted recent reforms in the building permit process as well as in other municipal sectors. He said, “The leadership of Kabul Municipality welcomes administrative and civil service reforms and remains committed to establishing a responsive institution that meets the service needs of citizens.”
He added, “Following the stages of technical assessment, data collection, and identification of the terms of reference, the process of issuing construction permits has now been significantly simplified to provide the necessary facilitation for citizens.”
Dr. Tajik further noted that previously, issuing a construction permit involved 455 steps and took 389 days. Under the proposed reforms, the process is now completed in 69 steps within 20 days.
