The William Aldridge Foundation

Governor Mangal reports on progress in Helmand
A Defence Policy and Business news article
4 Nov 10

Gulabuddin Mangal, the governor of Helmand, spoke yesterday of the progress he has witnessed in the southern Afghan Province over the last two-and-a-half years.

Speaking to journalists during a visit to London, Mr Mangal, who has been Helmand governor since May 2008, spoke of his pride in the position, but joked that many would know it as the 'insecure province of Afghanistan'.

He therefore began by stressing just how much progress ISAF and Afghan forces had achieved in securing the province over the last 24 months and diminishing the influence of insurgents.

Speaking through an interpreter, Mr Mangal said:

"About two years ago out of 13 districts in Helmand Province only six were under Government control - and when I say six, I mean only six towns or districts were under state control.

"But now the situation is different, now we have got greater presence is ten districts - and when I say districts I of course mean districts and villages. There is a freedom of movement between districts and between villages and most of the areas controlled by us, and not just ordinary people are able to travel from one district to another but also civil servants as well."

Read the full report on the MOD website here:
www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/D...rogressInHelmand.htm