KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – At a recent shura held at the Kandahar International Airport adjacent to NATO’s Kandahar Airfield, over 20 local tribal elders gathered to discuss security-related issues with ISAF and Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF).
The shura focused on how local community members can help identify suspicious activity and individuals in their village and how to best communicate their concerns to ISAF and ANSF personnel. During the shura, elders stated that they have noticed an increase in security throughout Kandahar province, and their desire to see more ANSF personnel to solidify that security. They also discussed issues pertaining to the high unemployment rate among their youth,
While addressing the shura, U.S. Colonel Richard Stephen Williams, Commander, 207th Brigade, thanked the elders for their honesty and support.
“One of the most important ways you can help the ANSF and ISAF to continue to improve security is to make sure they get the information when Taliban extremists are setting up in the village so we can stop them.”
“I also understand the issues of unemployment regarding your youth and together we will improve this situation. However, emphasize to your sons that unemployment is not a reason to pick up an AK-47 and start fighting alongside the Taliban. Everyone working together will lead to a better life for your village and children,” he added.
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