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KABUL – Despite global conflicts, attention must remain on Afghanistan, where women and girls continue to bear the brunt of a prolonged crisis exacerbated by recent earthquakes in Herat and the forced return of Afghans from Pakistan, emphasized Mr. Pio Smith, UNFPA Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, concluding his five-day mission to Afghanistan.
While UNFPA supports over 700 health facilities, reaching approximately 700,000 people monthly, the situation requires much more to ensure every Afghan woman and girl receives essential sexual and reproductive health services, along with psychosocial support for coping and rebuilding their lives.
Critical Maternal Health Services for Returnees
In the past two months, over 340,000 Afghan returnees, including pregnant women and girls, have crossed from Pakistan into Afghanistan at Torkham and Spin Boldak borders. To address their immediate needs, a mobile health clinic, staffed with doctors, midwives, and counselors, operates 24/7 at the Torkham reception center in Nangarhar province.
Complications from inaccessible maternity services can lead to serious conditions like obstetric fistula. The UNFPA-supported Malalai Maternity Hospital in Kabul is one of the few hospitals in Afghanistan offering free surgery for obstetric fistula repair.
Crucial Psychosocial Support in Herat
In Zindajan District, where the recent earthquakes struck, UNFPA provides essential psychosocial support. Maryam, grieving the loss of her daughter during the quake, waits to speak with a UNFPA-supported counselor. Immediate assistance, including maternal health support, has been provided, with tents replaced by a fully equipped maternity unit offering various services.
Young Advocates Inspire Hope
Despite deepening poverty and rights violations, the energy and determination of young Afghans offer hope. Mr. Smith highlighted the role of young people in UNFPA’s work, commending their spirit of volunteerism. He urged them to continue their efforts, assuring ongoing support to strengthen the impact and reach of UNFPA’s work in Afghanistan.
In conclusion, Mr. Smith expressed hope and commitment, acknowledging the resilience of Afghan women and girls and emphasizing the UN’s dedication to rebuilding alongside them.
