In contemporary Afghanistan, most investments by Afghan and foreign entrepreneurs are concentrated in major cities such as Kabul, Kandahar, Mazar-e-Sharif, Herat, and Nangarhar. These cities provide a conducive environment and infrastructure for investment.
However, it is undeniable that other provinces and rural areas remain underdeveloped. Recently, Afghanistan has experienced significant peace and stability, making it the perfect time to focus on rural areas. This shift will not only create economic opportunities but also develop and flourish these regions. Balancing economic growth between urban and rural areas is essential for the holistic progress of the entire country.
When we think about the development of rural areas, it is not just about infrastructure but also about job opportunities. Investing in rural areas can save young people from unemployment and provide them with employment opportunities.
This will prevent many from leaving their villages and migrating to cities. Investment in rural areas will also open new avenues for agriculture. Afghanistan is primarily an agricultural country, with most people in rural areas engaged in farming. Investing in the agricultural sector can provide farmers with new technologies and facilities, increasing agricultural production and boosting the economy.
Another crucial reason for investing in rural areas is the construction of infrastructure. Building roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and electricity networks in rural areas makes people’s lives easier and provides them with essential services. Infrastructure development not only strengthens the economy of rural areas but also improves the health and well-being of the population.
The tourism sector in rural areas also holds significant potential. Afghanistan is a beautiful country with many tourist attractions, most of which are located in rural areas. Investing in the tourism sector can attract tourists to these regions, thereby creating new economic opportunities for local residents. Developing rural areas plays a vital role in preserving social and cultural values.
When rural areas prosper, people remain connected to their cultural and traditional values, protecting them from the cultural pressures of urbanization. The government and private sector must work together to ensure the development of rural areas. The government should provide facilities and incentives for investment in rural areas, and the private sector should capitalize on these opportunities by investing in various sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
Ultimately, Afghanistan’s future depends on the collective efforts of all Afghans. If we aim for a stable, developed, and self-reliant Afghanistan, we must extend investments from cities to rural areas, fostering nationwide progress. By doing so, we can lay the foundation for a prosperous and stable Afghanistan for future generations.
