Principled Approach, Localization, and Private Sector Engagement: DCA’s Commitment in Afghanistan

Since the takeover by the De facto Authority (DfA), Afghanistan has faced compounding crises that continue to challenge communities across the country. A deep gender imbalance has placed Afghanistan among the most restrictive countries in the world for women, often described as a system of gender prejudice. At the same time, the country lags behind comparable developing nations in terms of localization efforts. Private sector engagement—arguably the most sustainable path forward in a context of limited international recognition—faces increasing pressure and constraints.

In response to these challenges, and in alignment with evolving donor priorities, the Dutch Committee for Afghanistan (DCA) has embraced innovative, community-led solutions to maintain impact. One such approach is the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) model, which DCA has adapted to reach marginalized groups, particularly women and girls. In 2024 alone, of the 3.9 million people reached through DCA’s interventions, 30% were women—a notable achievement under the current restrictions. This success is rooted not only in the ECHO model but also in DCA’s sustained engagement with provincial and district authorities and its trusted relationships with customary and religious leaders.

Headquartered in Kabul, DCA operates with the agility and local grounding of a national NGO, while maintaining the capacity and systems of an international organization. DCA’s strong ties to Afghanistan’s private sector and customary institutions and structures are a cornerstone of its localization strategy. The organization supports and partners across the country with, for example:

•  Over 1,500 Veterinary Field Units (VFUs) 
•  49 milk collection centers
•  9 rural milk processing plants
•  10 community-based feed banks
•  Over 2,500 women-owned small-scale poultry farms
•  225 women-owned small-scale beekeeping farms
•  Over 1,062 rural one-stop shop keepers
•  More than 7,000 lamb fattening units
•  Cashmere and wool collection and processing enterprises and,

Alternative livelihoods for former poppy growers and traffickers (e.g., saffron, vegetables, fruits, dairy goats, seed banks).

DCA also works closely with local governance and traditional institutions—Shuras, Maliks, Arbabs, Jirgas, and religious leaders—to embed localization at every level of its operations. This inclusive approach ensures that programs are not only accepted by the community but also sustained by local actors.

Together, these efforts demonstrate a proven model for expanding and sustaining private sector development in Afghanistan. With further support—such as integration with microfinance institutions, financial service providers, value-added processing, certification schemes, and access to export markets—this model has the potential to significantly increase incomes, improve wellbeing, and provide a dignified future for Afghan communities.