Afghanistan is in the grip of an ongoing drought which has created extreme food shortages and a humanitarian crisis.
Afghanistan is in the grip of an ongoing drought which has created extreme food shortages. On top of the recent political turmoil that resulted in the displacement of many individuals and families, the country is one of the world's most rapidly growing humanitarian crises.
Across Afghanistan, since the beginning of 2021, some 668,000 people fled their homes, bringing the number of internally displaced people to at least 4.2 million. COVID-19 related import restrictions and widespread unemployment have worsened food insecurity. Close to 23 million people (55% of the population) are critically food insecure. Months of drought and current harsh winter conditions have further contributed to the vulnerability of millions of Afghan families, and our partners have emphasised the urgent need for food assistance as they learn of families being forced to take desperate measures to meet their needs.
A humanitarian crisis of incredible proportions is unfolding before our eyes.
For over four decades, Tearfund has stood alongside our local partners in Afghanistan in working towards a more just and compassionate world. Their development work has included maternal and mental health care, education for both children and adults, projects to improve hygiene and sanitation, and support to help local people enjoy greater food security and earn an income.
Tearfund’s partners in Afghanistan are helping to address the needs of vulnerable displaced families through the provision of emergency food, hygiene supplies, blankets and education support for children in Internally Displaced People’s camps.
As well as the emergency food relief work, our partners are also assisting the recovery of communities through providing access to clean water, linking to health services and income generating opportunities for families. In all work, much consideration is given to risk management to ensure that staff and community members are safe in the process.
The number of people needing humanitarian assistance has risen by 30% since 2020 and much of the country is in extreme drought. The level of severe malnutrition in children is staggering.
During this very uncertain time in Afghanistan, please pray for Tearfund’s Afghan partners and the communities they have so faithfully served over many years. Please remember the very difficult decisions that they need to make. May they know God’s wisdom and be able to demonstrate love and compassion to those who are facing an uncertain future.
The situation in Afghanistan is complex and rapidly changing. To help address some of your queries regarding Tearfund's response we have listed these frequently asked questions.
1. https://bit.ly/3t9jsxi and https://news.un.org/en/story/2... and https://reliefweb.int/report/afghanistan/afghanistan-growing-humanitarian-crisis
