Velocity Strategic Advisory (VSA)
“Where Policy, Peace, and Investment Align”
Organizational Overview & Core Competencies
Overview
Velocity Strategic Advisory (VSA) is a premier policy and strategy consultancy delivering high-impact, evidence-based insight to governments, international institutions, and private sector leaders. With a robust network of seasoned experts and practitioners, VSA specializes in geopolitical analysis, conflict-sensitive development, regional connectivity, and investment advisory, serving as a trusted partner in complex environments across Central and South Asia. VSA’s work is distinctly Afghanistan-centric, prioritizing strategies and solutions rooted in the country’s unique political, economic, and social realities.
Evolving from the former Velocity Consulting—originally founded in Afghanistan years ago—VSA represents a reinvigorated vision grounded in decades of practical experience in diplomacy, governance, development, and strategic communication. At a time of unprecedented geopolitical transformation in the region, VSA aims to offer timely and pragmatic support to a wide range of stakeholders.
Leadership: Mohammad Umer Daudzai
Mohammad Umer Daudzai, who currently leads Velocity Strategic Advisory (VSA), is among Afghanistan’s most experienced statesmen and international diplomats, with over 40 years of service spanning humanitarian work, diplomacy, governance, peacebuilding, and strategic affairs. Originally established as Velocity Consulting, the initiative has evolved into VSA under his strategic leadership, bringing renewed focus and depth to its mission.
A native of the Qarabagh District in Kabul Province, Daudzai’s journey began in the resistance movement against Soviet occupation in the 1980s. He later served with organizations such as Save the Children UK, the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan, and UNDP, before moving into high-level public service:
Mr. Daudzai is currently a Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), contributing to regional policy and security discourse. Fluent in Pashto, Dari, English, and Urdu, he brings unparalleled insight and leadership to VSA.
Vision and Mission
VSA envisions itself as a globally respected policy and strategic advisory hub rooted in regional expertise. Its mission is to provide reliable, context-aware solutions that bridge local knowledge with global standards.
Core Services
Infrastructure & Regional Connectivity Advisory
VSA specializes in regional infrastructure and mega-projects, offering policy advice, political risk analysis, and negotiation support for flagship initiatives such as (but not limited to):
VSA’s unique access and diplomatic insight enable it to assist in designing and de-risking transformative connectivity initiatives.
Team and Expertise
VSA draws on a trusted network of over 50 experts and partner institutions, including former ministers, renowned academics, political advisors, regional analysts, development practitioners, and sectoral specialists, NGOs and academic institutions, all with extensive experience in policy-making, research, and development across the following areas:
This diverse talent pool allows VSA to form agile, issue-specific teams for tailored assignments.
VSA Fellowship & Research Program
To strengthen its intellectual foundation, VSA will launch a Fellowship Program for individuals with significant contributions to peace, governance, and strategic development.
Strategic Dialogues & Research Hubs
VSA will host regional policy dialogues inspired by models like IISS and Chatham House. These platforms will:
Conclusion
In a region undergoing rapid change, Velocity Strategic Advisory (VSA) stands at the intersection of policy, diplomacy, and development. Grounded in seasoned leadership and supported by new generations of experts, VSA is poised to guide clients through complex transitions and toward sustainable peace, prosperity, and regional cooperation.