Disasters raise grief in Afghanistan
Nature has been particularly cruel to the people of Afghanistan in 2023 and 2024: The disastrous earthquake in the west of Afghanistan in autumn 2023, with several aftershocks, killed thousands of people and made tens of thousands more homeless. On top of that, in early summer 2024, raging floods in the north of Afghanistan brought even more displacement and grief.
Several factors contributed to these floods, including the effects of climate change, unregulated construction, and the destruction of forests and pastures. The floods, driven by heavy rainfall and abnormal precipitation patterns, have caused not only significant loss of life and property but also widespread social and environmental disruption.
The consequences on the northern provinces of Baghlan, Badakhshan and Takhar are tragic. They claimed the lives of over 350 people and left thousands homeless. More than 1,000 homes were completely washed away, with thousands more damaged. In total, over 60,000 people were affected by these floods. Key infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power and water networks suffered severe damage. Additionally, the floods have led to the spread of waterborne diseases and other health issues due to contaminated water, as well as the destruction of agricultural lands, pastures, and forests.
Immediate aid and longer-term solutions
In response to this crisis, Malteser International and its local partner organization Union Aid, with funding from Germany’s Relief Coalition, is actively providing emergency assistance to 859 families among the most vulnerable communities in Baghlan, Takhar and Badakhshan. The aid includes the distribution of food items such as flour, rice, beans, cooking oil, salt, sugar, and tea, as well as hygiene and relief kits containing essential items like face masks, soap, toothbrushes, and menstruation pads. By working closely with affected communities and establishing a robust feedback and response management system, we ensure the highest level of accountability and support for those in need.
The aftermath of these floods is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of this region to natural disasters, and of the ongoing humanitarian needs that must be addressed. The road to recovery will be long, and additional financial resources will be essential to support both the urgent needs of those affected contributing to nutrition and food security and health, clean water and general hygiene as well implementing preventive measures to mitigate the impact of future disasters. Public awareness and community engagement will be crucial in ensuring that these efforts are effective, and that the region is better prepared for similar events in the future.
Your donation supports people in need in Afghanistan.
(September 2024)
