RASC News Agency: The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has raised serious concerns over Afghanistan’s escalating maternal mortality rate, reporting that every two hours, a mother loses her life to preventable pregnancy and childbirth-related complications. In a report published on Monday, Nov 4, the UNFPA underscores that Afghanistan ranks among the world’s most perilous countries for maternal health. The report highlights the profound difficulties Afghanistani women face during pregnancy and childbirth.
The report states: “Every two hours, a mother dies from complications related to reproductive health that could have been prevented. Afghanistan’s frail healthcare infrastructure, along with severely limited access to reproductive health services especially in rural areas puts mothers and newborns at significant risk.” Further, the report details how protracted economic instability, restrictions on women’s employment and education, forced repatriations, and increasing internal displacement have intensified Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis.
UNFPA emphasizes its ongoing commitment to supporting Afghanistani mothers and children, delivering critical healthcare services to at least one million people monthly through its emergency response programs across the country. Pia Smith, UNFPA’s Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, remarked: “Years have passed since my last visit to Mazar-i-Sharif, yet this crisis is something we cannot and will not ignore. Afghanistani women and girls endure extensive psychological trauma, compounded by restrictions and the loss of their livelihoods.”
The organization reaffirmed its dedication to tackling maternal health issues and securing a brighter future for girls in Afghanistan. According to the United Nations, the UNFPA is determined to continue its assistance, working to ensure that mothers and girls across Afghanistan gain reliable access to essential healthcare services.
