Afghanistan among 10 nations facing acute food insecurity, UN warns

Afghanistan has found itself among the ten nations grappling with severe food insecurity, with nearly two million people at risk, according to a report by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), as reported by Afghanistan-based Khaama Press.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the UN World Food Programme sounded the alarm, revealing that Afghanistan is among the ten countries where a staggering 19.9 million people are facing food insecurity. The situation is dire, with nearly 70 per cent of those urgently needing food assistance residing in nations such as Congo, Nigeria, Sudan, Pakistan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Yemen, Bangladesh, and Somalia, as stated in the Khaama Press report.

Afghanistan's disturbing statistics

WFP's report specifically pointed to Afghanistan, highlighting that a shocking 41 million people within the country face severe food insecurity at an alarming level. This grim assessment follows concerns voiced by various international relief agencies regarding budget shortfalls for aiding those in need in Afghanistan.

Adding to the urgency of the situation, David Beasley, the head of the World Food Programme, has raised the possibility of suspending the organisation's operations in Afghanistan. Beasley cited budget constraints, stating that they lack the necessary funds to continue their programs beyond October, according to Khaama Press.

However, amid these challenges, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has taken action. ADB announced the allocation of USD 400 million to safeguard the livelihoods and well-being of Afghans at risk, with a particular focus on women and girls. The United Nations will oversee the administration of this assistance, which aims to address immediate food shortages, boost regional food production for long-term security, and ensure access to basic healthcare services for the Afghan people.

It's crucial to note that Afghanistan's current humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by the impact of climate change, including droughts, floods, and earthquakes. This has resulted in an unprecedented catastrophe, disproportionately affecting women and children, who make up around 85 per cent of the population.

Families headed by women are especially vulnerable to food shortages and restricted access to essential services due to mobility issues, as highlighted in the report by Khaama Press.

To address the urgent financial needs for immediate assistance in Afghanistan, three UN organisations will receive direct off-budget funds as part of the "Expanding Essential Food Security and Health Services Project," also known as "Support for Afghan People."

The World Food Programme (WFP) will receive a grant of USD 100 million to tackle food security challenges. Additionally, WFP will implement "Food Assistance for Training" programs, primarily benefiting women by equipping them with marketable skills and business opportunities in agricultural sectors like fruit and vegetable processing. These initiatives aim to support sustainable income and livelihoods for Afghan women, contributing to long-term food security and economic stability.