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Khost & Paktika Update No. 60 - 20 May 2015

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1. KHOST & PAKTIKA UPDATE

When the refugee influx began from North Waziristan Agency into Khost and Paktika provinces, many humanitarian agencies thought the situation would be short-term. However as the operations expanded and there have been reports of destroyed property and infrastructure, refugee families are planning to stay longer. As a result, different interventions are needed, in particular livelihoods as families have exhausted their resources and need additional resources.

When speaking with refugee leaders who are staying in communities, many reported that they were trying to find work as daily labourers during the current wheat harvest, but were concerned about income-generating opportunities in a few weeks when the harvest is over. Many are skilled and had been farmers, shopkeepers or had worked in the construction industry while a number had worked as truck drivers. At the same time, projects such as construction of new water points, rehabilitation of wells, and improving shelters were listed as priorities for refugees living in the host communities.
UNHCR will be working with partners to help identify Quick Impact Projects that can help foster livelihood opportunities and support communities with needed infrastructure. This will also help to prevent tensions between refugees and hosting communities.

UNHCR will be piloting a livelihoods project for women in Gulan camp, while CARE international is starting a cash-for-work project in Khost communities. Refugees also cited that specifically for young adults training opportunities in areas of carpentry, plumbing, mechanics, masonry or electrical would be welcome. Older children who were in high school in North Waziristan are not able to attend school and there are limited training or educational opportunities in Afghanistan.