Life has always been a battle for survival in the remote village of Dahne Piyar, which is situated in the Duab district of Nuristan Province, Afghanistan. The individuals living here have experienced severe economic situations, hunger, and unmet basic needs. Nevertheless, a glimmer of hope has appeared in the midst of these difficulties, thanks to a project called "Food Assistance, Livelihood Protection, and Restoration for Food Insecure Vulnerable People in Nuristan Province," which was implemented by DACAAR between October 22, 2023, and July 21, 2024, with funding from the Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund (AHF).

The residents of Dahne Piyar received much-needed aid thanks to DACAAR's intervention. A complete food package containing 150 kg of wheat flour, 12 kg of beans, 12 liters of oil, and 1.5 kg of salt was provided to each home. At a crucial moment when many families were on the verge of hunger, this help arrived.

This assistance had a significant and instantaneous effect. Beyond only reducing hunger, the food parcels had a beneficial knock-on effect that changed the neighborhood for the better. Crime rates dropped significantly, which was unexpected because there had been an increase in crimes as desperate people turned to thievery to support their families. When vulnerable people started getting enough nourishment, their health, especially that of the elderly, young children, and expectant mothers, significantly improved. In addition, families were able to start seeing a more hopeful future because of the financial stability this support brought about.

Dahne Piyar resident Gul Wali conveyed his appreciation by saying, “We are not concerned about where our next meal is coming from for the first time in months. We can now concentrate on other facets of our lives, such as the welfare of our family and the education of our children”

This project has been successful, yet there are still questions about its sustainability. The aid simply takes care of the communities' immediate necessities. It is not a sustainable answer to the underlying problems of food insecurity and poverty.

People in the community have shared their ideas for upcoming projects. They suggest that in order to promote long-lasting change, DACAAR and its donors ought to think about starting projects. Some recommendations are cash transfers to help people launch their own businesses, small business grants, and other livelihood initiatives that can help people become self-sufficient.

The tenacity and passion of its people are demonstrated by Dahne Piyar's story. Even more, transformation may be possible with focused, long-lasting interventions. Even if DACAAR's project has temporarily eased the situation, there is still optimism for the day when the residents of Dahne Piyar will be able to support themselves. With a fresh feeling of hope and determination, the villagers are prepared to seize any possibilities that present themselves as they continue to reconstruct their lives.

The success of the "Food Assistance, Livelihood Protection, and Restoration" initiative in Dahne Piyar serves as evidence of the vital role that humanitarian relief plays in easing suffering that is immediate. It also emphasizes the significance of sustainable development initiatives, which can provide long-term remedies for issues like food insecurity and poverty. Future efforts in Nuristan and elsewhere should be guided by the community's request for life-changing projects.

Food items package distributed to Dahne Piyar residents	A beneficiary received food package

Written by: Israrullah Sahil