KABUL – The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has issued another stark warning about the escalating hunger and malnutrition crisis in Afghanistan, revealing the highest levels for the year 2024. Approximately 15.8 million people in the country are anticipated to face severe food shortages.

OCHA’s social media post disclosed that despite humanitarian efforts reaching 29.4 million people from January to November 2023, with 25.5 million directly benefiting, funding shortfalls have led to reduced food assistance. In particular, 18 million people in IPC 3+ areas are affected, with 3.4 million receiving half rations in IPC 4 areas.

The ban on Afghan women working for international NGOs and the UN is complicating relief efforts, according to the OCHA report. However, humanitarian organizations are committed to expanding their response, prioritizing quality and risk mitigation.

The 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP), revised in May, now seeks to assist 21.3 million people with a $3.2 billion budget, including $2.26 billion for unmet needs from June to December. As winter approaches, ongoing support is crucial, particularly for returnees from Pakistan and those affected by recent earthquakes in Herat Province.

OCHA’s warning comes amid increased needs due to the return of Afghan migrants from Pakistan, recent earthquakes in Herat Province, and the imminent onset of winter. The situation underscores the urgency for additional funds to manage border delays, market disruptions, and pre-position relief items, as funding gaps pose risks to critical supply chains in various sectors.

Previously reported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), 85% of Afghans are living on less than one dollar a day since the Taliban’s return to power. The convergence of these challenges demands immediate attention and global support to avert a deepening humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.

Culled from Afghanistan Times