DCA and MAIL Sign MoU to Launch EU-Funded SLVC-A Project in Afghanistan
Kabul, 7 April 2026—The Dutch Committee for Afghanistan (DCA) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in Afghanistan’s livestock sector and launch the Enhancing Sustainable Livelihoods and Climate-Resilient Value Chains in Afghanistan (SLVC-A) project.
The event brought together representatives from DCA, the European Union, MAIL, and technical stakeholders, reflecting a shared commitment to improving rural livelihoods and strengthening climate resilience across Afghanistan. The opening remarks were delivered by the DCA Deputy Executive Director, who underscored the importance of coordinated implementation and highlighted the project’s contribution to sustainable rural development.
The SLVC-A project will be implemented from 2026 to 2029 and aims to reach 300,000 households, or 2,100,000 individuals, across 17 provinces. It focuses on strengthening livestock value chains, improving service delivery and infrastructure, and supporting vulnerable rural households through integrated livelihood interventions. It also promotes climate-smart agriculture, supports micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and ensures the inclusion of women and youth. It further aims to address the socio-economic drivers of displacement, insecurity, and dependency on humanitarian assistance by fostering sustainable livelihoods and long-term resilience.
The project is funded by the European Union and implemented by DCA in line with EU standards and principled approach, with a strong focus on transparency, accountability, and results-based delivery. Under the MoU, DCA will be responsible for implementation, including technical planning and execution, while MAIL will provide oversight and monitoring to ensure quality and effective delivery. This collaboration builds on a long-standing partnership between DCA and the European Union in supporting livestock development and rural resilience in Afghanistan.
The MoU marks an important milestone in strengthening institutional cooperation and is expected to contribute to improved livelihoods, enhanced climate resilience, and sustainable economic development in rural Afghanistan. DCA expresses its appreciation to the European Union for its continued and generous support to the people of Afghanistan.