WHO: Over 1 Million Afghan Kids In Severe Malnutrition Crisis

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has sounded the alarm, revealing that over one million children in Afghanistan are currently grappling with severe malnutrition. This dire situation has prompted urgent calls for international assistance and funding, as the country strives to combat this escalating crisis. TOLO News, an Afghan news channel based in Kabul, has reported on the severity of the issue, shedding light on the pressing need for resources to address the critical health needs of Afghanistan’s vulnerable population.

WHO Director-General’s Plea for Funding

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has emphasized the gravity of the situation, asserting that Afghanistan urgently requires $185 million to effectively combat malnutrition. In a statement, he noted that 30 percent of the entire Afghan population is currently facing acute food insecurity. The dire statistics include nearly one million severely malnourished children and 2.3 million children suffering from moderate acute malnutrition.

Taliban-Appointed Ministry of Public Health Acknowledges the Crisis

Even the Taliban-appointed Ministry of Public Health in Afghanistan has acknowledged the worsening situation. They reported a slight increase in the number of malnourished mothers and children compared to previous years, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

Healthcare Professionals Witnessing the Surge

Healthcare professionals at Indira Gandhi Children’s Hospital have noted a significant surge in malnourished children compared to previous years, particularly during the winter months. Nurse Fatima Azimi revealed that the hospital is witnessing an influx of 15 to 20 malnourished children referred for treatment daily.

Societal Solutions Proposed by Healthcare Experts

In response to the crisis, healthcare professionals are advocating for societal changes to mitigate the prevalence of child malnutrition. Doctors stressed the importance of respectable families adhering to health guidelines, increasing the spacing between births, and addressing the broader issue of poverty.

Summary

• Child Malnutrition Crisis: Afghanistan faces a severe child malnutrition crisis, with over one million children affected, according to WHO.
• Financial Urgency: WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus calls for $185 million to combat malnutrition, citing 30% of Afghans experiencing acute food insecurity.
• Taliban Acknowledgment: The Taliban-appointed Ministry of Public Health acknowledges a slight rise in malnourished mothers and children, highlighting the crisis’s gravity.
• Healthcare Strain: Indira Gandhi Children’s Hospital reports a surge in malnourished children, prompting healthcare professionals to advocate for societal changes and poverty alleviation.