UN Development Chief Visits Nangarhar After Earthquake, Highlights Urgent Needs
Alexander de Croo, the head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), visited Nangarhar province and stated that three out of every four people in Afghanistan face difficulties meeting their basic needs. He made these remarks following his visit to the earthquake-affected areas of Dara Noor district, saying he witnessed firsthand the harsh realities of the local population’s lives.
De Croo traveled to Dara Noor district on Sunday, July 5, an area severely damaged by last year’s devastating earthquake which destroyed many residents’ homes. He emphasized that the UNDP is striving to support the people by fostering development and stability in local communities.
According to him, the organization is collaborating with local communities to build shelters, construct flood protection structures, and provide job opportunities so that affected families can rebuild their lives. He added that while emergency and humanitarian aid save lives, sustainable development can pave the way for stability and a better future.
Meanwhile, De Croo arrived in Kabul on Sunday accompanied by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The Taliban’s Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation issued a statement saying the delegation had visited the country with the aim of observing and assessing the situation and challenges faced by the Afghan people.
This visit takes place amid ongoing shortages of shelter, employment opportunities, and basic services for many residents in the affected areas. It is expected that coordination between international organizations and the Taliban administration will improve to effectively address these urgent needs.
