Afghan Taliban Signs $7.7 Million Health Services Contract to Improve Care in 19 Provinces
The Taliban’s Ministry of Public Health has announced the signing of a five-year contract worth over 7.7 million US dollars with an international non-governmental organization to enhance the quality of health services and increase citizens’ access to medical care. Under this agreement, nearly 600,000 people across 19 provinces will benefit from health services.
According to the ministry’s press release, the contract was signed with the Malaysian Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA) and aims to strengthen and expand health services in the provinces of Kabul, Nangarhar, Kapisa, Badakhshan, Takhar, Kunduz, Baghlan, Balkh, Jawzjan, Faryab, Herat, Kandahar, Helmand, Samangan, Ghor, Bamyan, Paktia, Khost, and Farah. The total value of the contract is reported to be 7,730,125 US dollars.
The project will focus on improving the quality of primary and specialized health services, increasing residents’ access to healthcare facilities, and addressing health challenges in the targeted areas.
The Ministry of Public Health added that upon implementation, about 600,000 individuals will benefit from primary and specialized health services, while employment opportunities will be created for 404 people in various health sectors. However, experts consistently emphasize that transparency in fund usage and effective monitoring of project implementation are essential factors for the sustainable improvement of the country’s health system — a sector that has faced resource shortages and limited access in many areas in recent years.
