One of the biggest challenges in Afghanistan is somewhat self-imposed, you see, we've determined that it's best to "win the hearts and minds of the people" and therefore, we've engaged in a little nation building, with the first step guaranteeing security there; easier said than done with insurgents from Pakistan and Iran, and the ever menacing Taliban amongst various other players and occasional jihadists. There are IEDs, local community betrayals, and people changing sides faster than a game of musical chairs.
So, what should we do; go fly a kite? Well, interestingly enough that might work, but I also have another thought here; Why not build soccer fields? How so you ask. Well, below is a quick run-down of what I have in mind, so let me explain and then let's discuss it.
Phase I
-Have Elders Bless it and Take Partial Credit
-Build Soccer Fields in all Cities/Towns/Villages
-Make them 10 abreast, or two-rows of five
-Use "Kite Power" for lights for night play
-Use "water-from-air" technology to drip irrigate the fields
-Supply nets, goal posts, marking chalk, grass seed, uniforms, etc. (bought in-country)
Phase II
-Supply iPad type tablets to keep score, run the tournaments, schedule, and APPs for practice.
-Use Tech to teach techniques, plays, coaches.
-Athletes to compete must do well in school to play, Elders decide the what level they must reach.
-Teach kids; mining, metallurgy, manufacturing, road building, construction, etc.
-Filming of games, players, posted to YouTube Afghan style.
One day a week - kite contests, where the best flyers come to compete.
Don't give the people hope, show them hope, give them a reason to live their life experience and to love life. That's real change.
Now then, recently I submitted this proposal to a debate team to pitch, which involves future policy makers in the US, along with future military commanders. I was asked what the possible risks would be to such a concept. Yes, there would be some risks, but those risks could turn into benefits too.
Risks:
1.) Taliban condemns soccer play as infidel activity, works to undermine it - could also result in a severe back-lash of community against Taliban
2.) Elders could see it as undermining their authority.
Are you beginning to see why this plan needs to get done, and what wonderful progress can be made in the name of; "winning hearts and minds" in Afghanistan? Indeed, I ask that you please consider all this and think on it, and if you have any other suggestions, please feel free to email me.
