UN’s OCHA Warns of Severe Drought Threatening Livelihoods in Afghanistan
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has expressed serious concern over the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, warning that severe drought is critically threatening the livelihoods of many families across the country.
On Thursday, October 9, OCHA reported that numerous Afghan communities are facing the worst drought conditions. According to the agency, unprecedented decreases in water resources have led to the drying up of agricultural lands, making cultivation and harvesting impossible in many areas.
Based on OCHA’s findings, mothers in parts of Afghanistan fear that due to food shortages, they may be unable to adequately feed their children. This crisis has not only undermined food security but also imposed significant psychological stress on families, especially women.
OCHA officials stated that in efforts to respond to this emergency, cash assistance has been provided to those affected by the drought to help meet at least some of their basic needs.
International organizations, including Mercy Corps, had previously issued warnings regarding Afghanistan’s water crisis. These warnings come amid perceptions of the Taliban administration’s incapacity and lack of planning in managing natural resources and responding to climate crises.
