Afghanistan's Hunger Crisis: 3 in 10 Children at Risk in 2024

A recent report by Save the Children has highlighted a severe hunger crisis in Afghanistan, predicting that approximately 6.5 million children, or three out of every ten, will face crisis or emergency levels of hunger in 2024.

The organization attributes the increase in food insecurity to floods, droughts, and the return of refugees. The recent floods in the northern provinces have killed hundreds of people and affected thousands of children. Asad Malik, the head of Save the Children in Afghanistan, described the situation as 'dangerous for children.'

Since the beginning of the year, more than 7,000 children have been treated for malnutrition. The return of refugees from neighboring countries, including Pakistan and Iran, has further exacerbated the crisis, leaving many families homeless and without means of support. The forced deportation of refugees from Pakistan has strained the already limited humanitarian efforts and resources in Afghanistan.

The hunger crisis in Afghanistan has significant implications for the country's future and global stability. If left unaddressed, it could lead to increased poverty, social unrest, and a rise in extremism, affecting regional and global security in the long run.

Save the Children has established a clinic staffed by male and female doctors, mental health specialists, and child protection experts to address the crisis. The organization is calling on the world to increase humanitarian aid to save the lives of children in Afghanistan.

The report also forecasts that 28% of the population, or about 12.4 million people, will face acute food insecurity before October 2024. Nearly 2.4 million people are predicted to experience emergency levels of hunger, which is one level below famine. An estimated 2.9 million children under the age of five are projected to suffer from acute malnutrition in 2024.

Torrential rain and flash floods in May in Northern Afghanistan have killed more than 400 people, destroyed or damaged thousands of homes, and turned farmland to mud. The three-year-long drought has forced farmers to take on other work to support their families, leading to financial problems and affecting children's health and education.

Save the Children is operating a 'clinic on wheels' in Baghlan as part of its emergency response program, providing medical care, mental health support, and child protection services. The organization has been supporting communities and protecting children's rights across Afghanistan since 1976.

Mariam, a mother of 11-month-old Firoz, shared her struggles: 'When my children are hungry, they become sad, and this affects me badly. I always wish they stayed healthy, and if any of them get sick, I become sad.' Dr. Nawid, working for Save the Children, added, 'These people face financial problems. From an agricultural standpoint, they have land but don't have water or adequate land for farming - they are jobless. These things affect children.'

Arshad Malik, Country Director for Save the Children in Afghanistan, emphasized the need for continued support: 'Save the Children has treated more than 7,000 children for severe or acute malnutrition so far this year. Those numbers are a sign of the massive need for continuing support for families as they experience shock after shock.'

The international community is urged to increase support to prevent a reversal of the current trend. Only 16% of funding for this year's humanitarian response plan has been met, despite nearly half the population needing assistance.

The situation in Afghanistan remains critical, with millions of children at risk of hunger and malnutrition. Immediate and sustained international aid is crucial to address this growing humanitarian crisis and protect the future of Afghanistan's children.

Key Takeaways

• 6.5 million Afghan children (3 in 10) will face crisis or emergency hunger levels in 2024.
• Floods, droughts, and refugee returns have exacerbated food insecurity in Afghanistan.
• 7,000+ children have been treated for malnutrition since the beginning of the year.
• 28% of Afghanistan's population (12.4 million) will face acute food insecurity by October 2024.
• Only 16% of funding for Afghanistan's humanitarian response plan has been met.