US special envoy emphasises for enhancing food security in Afghanistan

The US Special Representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West took to his official account on ‘X’ to share that he engaged in comprehensive discussions with officials from food and agriculture organisations in Afghanistan on World Food Day.

He emphasised that strengthening food security is vital to supporting the Afghan people. The Food and Agriculture (FAO) and World Food Program (WFP) “reach millions of Afghans with life-saving agriculture assistance and food aid. Had a good exchange with their leadership on the heels of World Food Day. Improving the country’s food security is critical to support the Afghan people,” he said.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent appeal for USD 7.9 million in funding to provide critical services to the 114,000 residents of Herat severely affected by the recent earthquake. This financial support is vital to address their immediate healthcare requirements after the devastating tremors, according to Khaama Press.

The WHO said women, girls, children, and other vulnerable communities account for more than 90 per cent of the casualties and injuries resulting from the Herat earthquake. The requested funds will play a pivotal role in ensuring that medical services reach those most in need, particularly vulnerable groups such as women, children, and marginalised communities, constituting over 90 per cent of the earthquake’s casualties and injuries in Herat.
The recent Herat earthquake hit the country at a critical time. The WFP report reveals that this seismic event coincided with a staggering 15 million Afghans uncertain about where their next meal would come from.
This alarming statistic underscores the severe food insecurity crisis gripping the nation, amplifying the urgency of addressing this pressing issue.

Furthermore, aid organisations operating in Afghanistan have expressed growing concerns about the Herat earthquake exacerbating the already daunting challenges the country faces.

(With inputs from ANI)