Japan contributes $7 million to combat hunger and malnutrition in Afghanistan

Japan pledges $7 million to fight hunger and malnutrition in Afghanistan, supporting humanitarian efforts to improve food security and nutrition.

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in Afghanistan has welcomed a $7 million contribution from the Government of Japan, aimed at supporting emergency food aid, combating malnutrition, and enhancing school feeding programs. The funding comes at a critical time as Afghanistan continues to grapple with a deepening humanitarian crisis exacerbated by political instability, economic collapse, and the impacts of climate change.

The WFP announced that the contribution will provide emergency food assistance to nearly 30,000 families for three months. Additionally, more than 60,000 pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and children will receive nutritious food, while nearly 30,000 children will benefit from daily snacks through school feeding programs.

Japan’s Ambassador to Afghanistan, Takayoshi Kuromiya, acknowledged the progress made in improving food security, attributing it to sustained humanitarian assistance and better harvests. However, he emphasized that significant challenges persist. “Fifteen million Afghans still do not know where their next meal will come from,” he stated. “These numbers represent real families, children, and communities in urgent need. The Government of Japan remains committed to supporting Afghan families through this crisis.”

Japan has been a steadfast partner in WFP’s efforts in Afghanistan, contributing a total of $93 million since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. This support has enabled the WFP to assist some of the country’s most vulnerable and food-insecure families, providing a lifeline amid ongoing economic and political turmoil.

Mutinta Chimuka, WFP’s acting Country Director in Afghanistan, highlighted the dire circumstances faced by many Afghans, particularly women and children. “As many Afghans, especially women, continue to struggle with limited economic opportunities, families across the country are also facing a harsh winter,” she said. “WFP remains dedicated to assisting the most vulnerable, particularly women-headed households. With the support of partners like Japan, we were able to reach over 12 million people last year, offering a crucial lifeline amid persistent challenges.”

The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan remains one of the most severe in the world. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), an estimated 22.9 million people, including 12 million children, will require humanitarian assistance in 2025. This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for sustained and multi-sectoral support to address the country’s complex and interconnected crises.

UNICEF has reported that severe climate change effects have triggered a nationwide water crisis, impacting food security, health, and nutrition across the country.

To address these challenges, UNICEF aims to secure $1.2 billion in funding for 2025 to support 19 million people, including 10.3 million children, with lifesaving assistance. This funding will play a crucial role in providing essential services, including healthcare, nutrition, education, and protection, to the most vulnerable populations.

The situation in Afghanistan remains dire, with millions of families struggling to meet their basic needs. International support, such as Japan’s recent contribution, is more critical than ever to address the growing humanitarian needs of the country’s most vulnerable populations. As the crisis continues to evolve, the collective efforts of the international community will be essential in providing hope and stability to the people of Afghanistan.

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