Islamic Republic of Afghanistan: Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper: Joint Staff Advisory Note

This paper provides an initial comprehensive framework for Afghanistan to build institutions, sustain growth, and reduce poverty. First, macroeconomic, political, and security risks were identified. As the interim strategy presents a very ambitious five-year framework, there is an urgent need for prioritization. The lack of human resources is the major constraint. The investments proposed for agriculture and rural development show a strong commitment to rural areas and to supporting the private sector. The government needs a realistic timeline to complete the Afghanistan National Development Strategy.