KABUL’s Garden, the UN refugee agency said on Wednesday.
“Tens of thousands of families have already received assistance thanks to a coordinated effort by the government of Afghanistan and the international community,” Afghan Refugee and Repatriation Minister Dr. Jamaher Anwary told a ceremony marking the launch of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR)’s winter assistance drive.
Kabul governor Abdul Jabar Taqwa was also present on the occasion, a UNHCR statement said.
Anwari stressed close monitoring and additional resources to fulfill urgent needs of the vulnerable and the displaced throughout winter.
Since November, the agency has provided warm clothing, blankets, tarpaulins, charcoal, soap, fuel, and cooking sets to more than 32,000 of Afghanistan’s most vulnerable families, the statement said, adding urgent assistance continued and soon to reach 240,000 Afghans.
Informal camps and settlements throughout Kabul city are home to some of the most at-risk, including thousands of children. The first fatality was reported Thursday, a three-year-old child.
“Emergency assistance responds to immediate needs, but as long as tens of thousands of people live in dire conditions, the risk of illness and death remains,” explained Ita Schuette, Acting UNHCR Representative in Afghanistan.
“Every Afghan family has the right to secure and warm shelter, clean water, and basic sanitation. To prevent fatalities now and in coming years, more must be done.”
pr/ma
Visits: 5
GET IN TOUCH
NEWSLETTER
SUGGEST A STORY
PAJHWOK MOBILE APP