Coordination Meeting Held Between Billboard and Advertising Reform Commission, Kabul District Finance Managers, and Advertising Companies

On Tuesday, 15 Dhul-Qi’dah 1446 The Ministry of Information and Culture, Deputy Ministry for Publications, convened a coordination meeting with district finance managers from Kabul Municipality and representatives of advertising companies. The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation and streamline efforts related to the regulation and cultural reform of public billboards and advertising content throughout the city.

The session was chaired by Mr. Mohajer Farahi, Deputy Minister of Publications, and attended by Mawlawi Safiullah Raed, Director of Press and Publication Oversight, Qari Wali Gul Jawad, Cultural Director of Kabul Municipality and member of the Reform Commission, Finance managers from all 22 municipal districts of Kabul, Heads of advertising companies, Additional members of the Reform Commission

In his opening remarks, Qari Wali Gul Jawad emphasized the widespread influence of foreign cultures during the years of foreign occupation, particularly in the language and imagery used in public advertisements. He noted that with the reestablishment of the Islamic Emirate, this issue is being addressed with seriousness. Under the guidance of the Office of the Prime Minister, a dedicated reform commission led by the Ministry of Information and Culture has been formed, involving multiple government institutions. This commission is actively working in Kabul and other provinces to restore cultural and linguistic integrity in public spaces.

Mr. Mohajer Farahi, Deputy Minister of Publications, stated that the Islamic Emirate’s policy is based on national self-reliance and the promotion of Afghan values. He stressed the need to replace culturally inappropriate content with messaging that reflects the country’s rich heritage and added that Advertisements is a powerful medium for shaping public perception. Visitors to Afghanistan should be introduced to our values and traditions. Kabul, a city with historic significance, must not serve as a platform for the dissemination of foreign cultural narratives.”

During the session, commission members presented sample slides showing both compliant and non-compliant advertisements, highlighting key areas for improvement. These visual examples were shared with participants to provide practical guidance and promote uniform standards in advertising.

The meeting concluded with a prayer, reaffirming the commitment of all participants to uphold Afghan cultural values in public advertising and strengthen coordination between municipal authorities and private advertising companies.