UNICEF: Nearly 900,000 Afghan Kids Suffer from Fatal Malnutrition

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has raised concerns over the devastating impact of climate change on food security for children in Afghanistan, Khaama Press reported yesterday.

According to UNICEF estimates, over 875,000 children under five currently suffer from severe acute malnutrition, which can be life-threatening.

The UN agency reported that recent flood-inducing rains in April have caused devastating losses for residents in affected areas, with many losing everything. The lack of access to food and clean water is leading to widespread illness among children, who often lack proper medical facilities.

Despite having one of the lowest pollution levels globally, Afghanistan ranks seventh among the countries most vulnerable to climate change impacts. In a country where 80% of the population relies on agriculture, recurrent natural disasters directly undermine family nutrition, especially in rural communities.

Furthermore, the humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by forced deportations, disrupting livelihoods and exacerbating fragile food security. The health and lives of Afghan women and children have been severely impacted by floods and other natural disasters, leading to heightened malnutrition rates and maternal health risks due to limited access to healthcare and nutrition.

UNICEF has urged the international community to take immediate action to address the worsening child food security crisis in Afghanistan amidst the devastating effects of climate change.