Afghanistan Peace CampaignThe lack of immediate intervention in this crisis will lead to a worrying increase in deaths, especially among children under the age of five.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, in a joint report, announced that 3.2 million children under five years and 840,000 pregnant and lactating women are now suffering from acute malnutrition in Afghanistan.
The report said that 1.7 million children are suffering from severe acute malnutrition and associated medical complications.
According to the report, the highest cases of malnutrition have been recorded in Kandahar and Paktika provinces.
The report warns that from May to September of this year, the number of people suffering from malnutrition has increased significantly, reaching a concerning level.
The report states: “The situation and fatalities are expected to deteriorate further with the onset of the winter season hence the need to reduce acute hunger before its peak in December and February to avoid significant loss of lives.”
Prolonged drought, natural shocks, displacement of populations, the sudden rise in the cost of living, food insecurity and massive unemployment are cited as factors that have caused children and women to suffer from malnutrition.
According to the two organizations, the lack of immediate intervention in this crisis will lead to a worrying increase in deaths, especially among children under the age of five.
The report also indicates that heavy snowfall in Paktika and Kandahar provinces will soon make many areas inaccessible, posing serious challenges to the delivery of essential supplies.
Additionally, pregnant women are at risk of giving birth to babies with low birth weight and congenital abnormalities.
Afghanistan has been grappling with severe economic, social, and natural crises for years, affecting the lives of millions of people.