RASC News Agency: The World Food Programme (WFP), a United Nations agency, has acknowledged a €25 million (US$26.6 million) donation from the European Union for humanitarian aid. This funding will enable the World Food Programme to deliver food assistance to families in need, including displaced populations nationwide. Additionally, it will facilitate the prevention and treatment of malnutrition in infants, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. The United Nations’ humanitarian aviation services will also be upheld.
Francois Goumaz, the organization’s leader, expressed, “One in three Afghanistani is uncertain about their next meal, with communities facing harsh winter conditions amid an economy devastated by destructive earthquakes and the recent forced return of Afghanistani from Pakistan.” The European Union has affirmed its commitment to standing in solidarity with the Afghanistani people in their humanitarian endeavors, recognizing the pressing requirement for life-saving aid.
Prolonged drought conditions in the country over three consecutive years have resulted in subpar harvests, triggering economic crises for numerous families. In rural areas, families have resorted to selling their remaining assets, such as livestock and agricultural tools, while in cities, one in three families lacks livelihood opportunities and seeks employment.
Hervé Verhoosel, the Country Director of the World Food Programme for Afghanistan, underscored, “The needs in Afghanistan are substantial ahead of winter, and hunger affects one-third of the population, exacerbated by high levels of malnutrition. The European Union’s humanitarian assistance arrives at a critical moment, providing an opportunity to reach the most vulnerable families before snow and ice isolate entire communities.”
With 25,000 passengers annually, the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) plays a crucial role in helping responders reach remote communities and transporting humanitarian cargo in a country where reliable and secure commercial flight options are limited.
From July to the end of September 2023, the World Food Programme reached over 17 million food-insecure individuals across the country through its various initiatives. Of those assisted, 8.6 million were women and girls. This financial contribution brings the European Union’s total participation in the World Food Programme’s efforts in Afghanistan for 2023 to €74.7 million (US$80.1 million).
