The withdrawal of U.S. aid in Afghanistan has led to the closure of crucial malnutrition treatment centers, leaving many children at high risk of death. The humanitarian crisis affects approximately 3.5 million children under five who suffer from acute malnutrition. The funding cuts have resulted in significant layoffs in the health sector, especially impacting women employed in these services, while the urgency for new funding solutions increases.
In Afghanistan, malnourished children face an imminent risk of death as cuts in U.S. aid prompt the closure of vital health services. Under the management of Action Against Hunger (ACF), a malnutrition treatment center in Kabul has halted operations due to the withdrawal of American funding, which had previously covered the center entirely. Cobi Rietveld, the ACF country director, noted, “If they don’t get treatment, there’s an extreme high risk of dying.”
The closure has forced the clinic to lock up its pharmacy and store away toys and supplies intended for the children it can no longer serve. Chief doctor Farid Ahmad Barakzai expressed the challenge faced by staff in redirecting patients to facilities that lack specialized treatment. Amid ongoing hardship, Afghanistan is currently experiencing one of the gravest humanitarian crises globally, with the UN reporting that it ranks second only to Sudan.
Each month, the clinic previously saw around 65 children suffering from severe malnutrition. With such conditions, any infection poses a serious threat, amplifying the risk of fatalities among malnourished children. Rietveld described the situation as “painful” for the staff as they conclude their service, having to refer children to less equipped facilities.
Malnutrition is particularly troubling in Afghanistan, where approximately 45 percent of the population is children under 14 years of age. Presently, there are about 3.5 million children suffering from acute malnutrition, resulting in one of the highest rates of stunting globally. This crisis extends beyond children, as nearly 15 million Afghans face food insecurity, with 3.1 million on the verge of famine.
The recent cessation of U.S. funding was highlighted by the World Food Programme, reinstating cuts for other nations while directly impacting Afghanistan. Edwin Ceniza Salvador, a WHO representative, remarked, “This is a country that’s been through so many shocks. So with a fragile system, even basic care of screening, those are even not there.”
The funding crisis has also led to extensive layoffs within the humanitarian sector. ACF has reportedly reduced its workforce by 150 out of 900 employees, with women disproportionately impacted due to restrictions from the Taliban government. Nurse Wazhma Noorzai expressed the feelings of many when stating, “For many of us, the only place we could work was in this health centre. Now, we are losing even that.” In light of funding declines, Rietveld indicated that ACF is seeking alternative donors, though she remains skeptical, asserting, “I don’t think other donors can cover the gap.”
The adverse effects of U.S. aid cuts in Afghanistan have created a dire situation for malnourished children and the humanitarian sector. With a significant number of children lacking access to essential health services, the risks of morbidity and mortality increase exponentially. Layoffs in the sector further exacerbate the crisis, leaving vulnerable populations without necessary support. The situation calls for urgent attention and alternative funding solutions to avert a humanitarian disaster.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
