Half a Million People in Eastern Afghanistan in Urgent Need After Earthquake: WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that nearly half a million people affected by the August 31 earthquake in eastern Afghanistan are in urgent need of medical assistance. The disaster displaced hundreds of thousands and has now developed into a prolonged displacement crisis.
According to the WHO report, prepared as of September 18, 2025, six camps have been established for displaced families in Kunar province. Thousands remain unable to return to their destroyed homes due to ongoing aftershocks and widespread devastation, forcing them to live in temporary shelters.
Between September 8 and 15, WHO conducted a health assessment across 37 villages, three camps, and 78 health facilities in Kunar, Nangarhar, and Laghman provinces. The findings revealed alarming conditions in both host communities and displacement sites, with major challenges including unsafe drinking water, inadequate health services, and poor sanitation.
Women reported the lack of female health workers and absence of privacy, while urgent needs include maternal and child healthcare, vaccinations, treatment for noncommunicable diseases, and psychosocial support.
WHO warned of growing risks of secondary crises. Contaminated water and overcrowding in camps have already led to an increase in acute respiratory infections and diarrhea, while the threat of malaria and measles persists.
Women and girls face heightened security risks in overcrowded camps, where limited mobility and lack of safe spaces worsen their vulnerability. As winter approaches, families in remote and mountainous areas without adequate shelter are at even greater risk.
Long-term needs are also emerging, with survivors requiring trauma care and widespread mental health support. To respond, WHO has launched an emergency appeal seeking over USD 6.9 million for the next six months to sustain life-saving health services, expand rehabilitation programs, and ensure ongoing support for displaced families.
