Afghanistan Ministry of Mines Drives Economic Development Initiatives

The Ministry of Mines and Petroleum in Afghanistan has unveiled a strategic plan to utilize the revenue generated from the Qashqari oil field to fuel development initiatives in Sar-e-Pul province. This initiative aims to enhance the infrastructure and economic landscape of the region. The upcoming projects include the establishment of a hospital, the construction of a power plant named Sultan Ibrahim Dam, and the development of road networks within the province. Moreover, there are expectations of a significant surge in oil extraction levels from the Qashqari field, projected to increase from 1,350 tons per day to 3,000 tons.

The decision to reinvest internally generated revenue into crucial sectors like construction and development has garnered praise from the Afghanistan Industrial Association. This strategic move is anticipated to create job opportunities locally, thereby curbing the exodus of individuals seeking employment abroad. Notably, the marble mine in Chisht, Herat, which has been leased to a private company for extraction, has already employed 5,000 workers. The extracted marble is undergoing processing in industrial parks located in Herat and is slated for export to countries such as Turkmenistan, Iran, China, and India.

Furthermore, plans are underway to establish processing facilities within Afghanistan, which is poised to yield substantial economic advantages. The Ministry of Mines and Petroleum has allocated contracts for 150 small mines to domestic companies and 30 large mines to international firms in collaboration with Afghan partners from nations like China, Iran, Turkey, and Qatar.

The utilization of revenue from the Qashqari oil field for development projects in Sar-e-Pul signifies a significant step towards fostering economic growth and employment opportunities within Afghanistan. By investing in key sectors and promoting partnerships, the country is poised to enhance its industrial capabilities and contribute to the overall prosperity of the region.