KABUL, Feb. 18 (Xinhua) -- The sun rises over Kabul, casting light on a nine-story residential building rising above the surrounding streets. The structure is impressive, but the real story reflects the determination of Afghan migrants who have returned home and are now playing a visible role in rebuilding their country.
Though concrete pillars and steel frames define the building's shape, its deeper foundation lies in the experience and resilience of the workers behind it, men who once labored abroad and have come back with skills, discipline and renewed purpose.
For Rezai, the project's developer, the building represents both development and dignity.
"This project has been built for development, improvement, and in response to the needs of the people," Rezai said. "It has been constructed using the highest and best-quality materials available in Afghanistan."
The project has generated direct and indirect employment for dozens of families, providing income stability at a time when Afghanistan faces a serious housing shortage, particularly in densely populated urban areas such as Kabul.
Among the workers is 33-year-old Mohammad Zia, a rebar installer and father of six. Having migrated to Iran during childhood, he began working at a young age to support his family.
"When we migrated to Iran, we were very young," he said. "The first job I did was cutting steel rods for my supervisor. Since then, I have continued in this field."
Today, Zia fastens steel reinforcements high above the ground, wearing a helmet and safety harness as he secures beams that will support future residents. He now earns fair wages and provides for his children in his homeland. The difficult conditions he once faced abroad -- long hours, limited pay, and lack of recognition -- have given way to stability and pride.
All construction plans undergo formal approval from municipal and district authorities, while supervisors monitor safety standards and regulatory compliance throughout the building process.
Developers have also prioritized domestic production, sourcing materials from Afghan factories to stimulate local industry while maintaining competitive standards.
"It is also a matter of pride for us to use our national products," Rezai said. "Most importantly, the quality of products made in our country is excellent, because competition with global markets raises the standard of quality."
Another returning worker, 24-year-old Yazdan Hosseini, represents a younger generation shaped by migration. After being deported from Iran while his family remained there, he resumed his way in Afghanistan, continuing a path he began in childhood.
Reflecting on his experience abroad, he said, "When I worked in Iran, my employer mistreated us and often did not pay our wages. But after returning to our country, I realized that development and job opportunities have been created here."
Now working full-time in metal fabrication, Hosseini views each beam and floor he helps complete as a contribution to national progress.
"If we do not stand together, our homeland will remain without support, and reconstruction will not happen," he said.
As the building continues to rise floor by floor, it reflects the power of Afghan migrant workers who have returned not merely to live in the city but to build it.
Guiding the construction is 29-year-old civil engineer Ebrahim Hosseini, who has spent the past decade contributing to Kabul's development. He sees construction as playing a vital role beyond private investment.
"These projects have not been purely personal," he said. "Construction plays a multifaceted role in society, helping reduce unemployment, address housing needs and improve the city's urban appearance."
Across Kabul, cranes and scaffolding are becoming familiar sights. Behind them stand returning migrants who are transforming experience gained abroad into momentum at home. Their technical skills, work ethic and determination are contributing not only to individual livelihoods but also to the broader urban revival of the capital. Enditem
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