Afghanistan Peace Campaign
UNDP reports that 139,000 Afghan families now have access to clean water, addressing ongoing water scarcity challenges in the country.
The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Afghanistan has highlighted the ongoing water accessibility challenges in the country. In a report released on 26th July 2025, the UNDP revealed that 139,000 families have gained access to clean water, but significant challenges remain in ensuring widespread access.
The report stresses that water scarcity has had a direct impact on migration, agriculture, and livelihoods across many regions of Afghanistan. With insufficient access to water, communities are forced to relocate in search of more viable living conditions, which further strains the country’s resources.
Women, in particular, bear the brunt of the water crisis, with the report emphasizing that they carry a disproportionate share of the burden. In rural areas, women often spend hours collecting water, a task that impacts their health and well-being.
To address this crisis, UNDP has helped develop over 80 water canals and 10 check dams in key regions of Afghanistan. These projects aim to restore water supplies, improve agricultural productivity, and provide sustainable access to clean water.
In provinces like Kandahar, Zabul, and Nangarhar, the revitalization of traditional Karez systems and the creation of new water infrastructure have had positive outcomes. Not only have these efforts helped revive agriculture and irrigation, but they have also reversed migration trends and increased community resilience.
However, despite these efforts, the UN has raised concerns about the broader impact of climate change on Afghanistan’s water resources. Droughts and unpredictable weather patterns are worsening the water scarcity crisis, which threatens both the country’s agricultural sector and the livelihoods of its citizens.
As the situation continues to evolve, experts stress the importance of long-term solutions that not only address immediate water shortages but also help communities adapt to the changing climate. Continued support from international organizations will be crucial in ensuring Afghanistan’s water security and resilience.