The National Procurement Commission, chaired by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, approved 15 projects worth around 4.2 billion AFN on Saturday, while amendments were made to seven other projects.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the approved and amended projects include the completion of geotechnical studies for the Zardalu Dam in Ghazni province; construction of a 14-kilometre road at Hairatan Port in Balkh; construction of the Kabul–Logar road from the end of Lot One to Sang-e-Nawishta; construction of public hospitals in Lolash District of Faryab, Andar District of Ghazni, Kajran District of Daykundi, Bala Murghab District of Badghis, Kahmard District of Bamyan, and Musa Khel District of Khost, as well as the completion of remaining electricity transmission and distribution projects in various provinces.

The approved projects are financed by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the statement added.

Richard Bennett, the U.N. special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, has called for a full and independent investigation into the March 16 attack on the Omid Drug Rehabilitation Hospital in Kabul.

In a post on X, Bennett said the attack, which he said was carried out by Pakistan, resulted in the deaths of more than 269 civilians, according to figures verified by United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.

“The 16/3 attack by Pakistan on Omid Drug Rehab Hospital in Kabul where UNAMA verified 269+ civilians killed demands a full, independent investigation,” Bennett wrote.

He added that deliberate attacks targeting civilians or civilian facilities could amount to war crimes under international law.

Bennett also urged the IEA authorities to ensure the safety and protection of patients and civilians in medical and rehabilitation facilities across Afghanistan.

Stephanie Luz, head of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme in Afghanistan, says the continued exclusion of women and girls from education, employment, and public decision-making remains a serious concern in the country.

Speaking at the event “Women and Girls Leading Urban Recovery and Peacebuilding” during the World Urban Forum 13 in Baku, Luz stressed that understanding the needs of Afghan women and girls requires directly listening to their voices, particularly through the involvement of local women in community discussions and planning.

She said women often experience safety risks in urban areas differently from men, making their perspectives and local knowledge essential for effective urban planning. According to Luz, UN-Habitat is working with local communities to develop action plans aimed at improving safe housing, access to water, healthcare services, and overall living conditions.

Luz also emphasized that women’s economic empowerment plays a vital role in strengthening their position within both families and society.