UNICEF Reports Over 19 Million Afghans Received Humanitarian Aid

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) announced that over 19 million people in Afghanistan received humanitarian assistance last year, with more than half being children, Khaama Press reported. In a report released on February 23, UNICEF highlighted that the aid covered essential sectors such as health, education, nutrition, water sanitation, social protection, and child protection.

Tajuddeen Oyewale, head of UNICEF’s office in Kabul, indicated that approximately 23.7 million people, including 12.6 million children, will require humanitarian assistance in 2024. This need arises from ongoing conflicts, the return of Afghan migrants from Pakistan, climate change, and a deepening economic crisis.

The report noted that UNICEF provided crucial medical services to 628,000 children under five suffering from severe malnutrition, achieving an 80% improvement in their health conditions. However, the restrictions on women and girls have compounded humanitarian challenges, exacerbating the economic crisis and increasing social and security risks.

UNICEF requested $1.44 billion in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan in 2024 but received only 56% of this budget. Despite the pressing needs, international aid has decreased, raising concerns about the sustainability of humanitarian programs. UNICEF’s findings underscore the urgent need for continued support from the international community to address the critical humanitarian situation, particularly for vulnerable children in Afghanistan.