KABUL: The UN World Food Programme (WFP) in Afghanistan appreciates a $1 million contribution from the Russian Federation’s Ministry for Civil Defense, Emergencies, and Natural Disaster Management (EMERCOM). This funding will enable WFP to purchase 1,000 metric tons of food, aiding 21,000 Afghan families – approximately 150,000 individuals – with vital food assistance.
Dmitriy A. Zhirnov, Russian Federation’s Ambassador in Afghanistan, stressed the urgency of humanitarian aid in light of Afghanistan’s dire situation. Currently, 16 million Afghans, a third of the population, are experiencing food insecurity due to limited income opportunities, making WFP’s assistance essential for their survival.
Hsiao-Wei Lee, WFP’s Country Director in Afghanistan, highlighted the significant impact of donor support in averting a humanitarian crisis but emphasized the need for sustained assistance to prevent a reversal of progress. Last year, WFP faced a funding crisis, leading to the exclusion of 10 million people from food aid and a reduction in rations for many vulnerable families, exacerbating malnutrition rates.
In 2023, WFP reached 18.6 million individuals, predominantly women and children, providing 600,000 metric tons of food and $190 million in cash or vouchers to address their nutritional needs. Russia’s recent contribution reinforces WFP’s emergency efforts, totaling $4 million over three years, demonstrating a continued commitment to addressing Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis.
(islamabad51_newsdesk)
